Mayo Clinic Health Systems — Austin and Albert Lea is hoping to bring change with its new Bone Health Clinic.

Osteoporosis causes bones to become weak and brittle – so brittle that a fall or even mild stresses like bending over or cough can cause a fracture, according to Mayo Health Clinic. Osteoporosis itself does not cause any pain, and because of that it is often under recognized and under treated. Now, thanks to collaboration between Orthopedics and Endocrinology, Mayo Clinic Health System – Albert Lea and Austin is looking to change that with its newly opened Bone Health Clinic.

“Every year, there are 1.5 million bone fractures in the United States due to osteoporosis,” Sumit Bhagra, M.D., endocrinologist at Mayo Clinic Health System – Albert Lea and Austin, said in a press release. “After the first osteoporosis-related bone-fracture, you are five times likely to have another bone fracture. The Bone Health Clinic is a unique and innovative collaboration. Very few organizations offer preventive services for osteoporosis under the guidance of both medical and surgical specialists.”

Dr. Bhagra recommended patients talk with their primary care provider about osteoporosis if they went through early menopause, took corticosteroids for several months at a time, or either parent had hip fractures. Bone Health Clinic appointments are by referral only; patients should speak with their primary care provider for more information.