Bone mineral density may be compromised by tobacco, making bones more brittle and break-prone.

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Bone mineral deficiencies such as osteopenia and osteoporosis have also been noted.

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The control group showed a decrease in soleus muscle mass and strength, the development of insulin resistance, and a loss of bone mineral density and resistance to breakage.

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Cliff Rosen, past president of the American Society for Bone and Mineral Research, agreed that there isn't much data showing calcium-and-vitamin-D supplements can prevent bone fractures.

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"If you have one of these risk factors, that may increase your risk of having others, " says Dr. Khosla, who is president of the American Society for Bone and Mineral Research, a professional organization of osteoporosis specialists.

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Dr. Hannan's study, in the Journal of Bone and Mineral Research last week, found that men over age 70 who lose 2 or more inches in two years have a 54% higher risk of fracturing a hip in the next two years than men who lose less height.

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Overuse of vitamin D, a substance that promotes the growth of bone and teeth in children, can be particularly toxic, as can overuse of the mineral iron by older adults.

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