Osteoporosis is a disease that leads to the weakening of the bones. It can affect women and men of all races and ethnic groups, according to the National Institutes of Health (NIH). While osteoporosis can occur at any age, the risk for developing the disease increases as we get older.
The Bone Health & Osteoporosis Foundation (BHOF) refers to it as a “silent disease” because you can’t feel symptoms, and many patients are diagnosed only after breaking a bone.
Those with osteoporosis are more likely to break bones. In fact, the BHOF notes that approximately 50% of women and 25% of men over the age of 50 will suffer a fracture due to osteoporosis. In most cases, broken bones are caused by falls. However, osteoporosis can weaken bones enough that they break from something like coughing or bumping into furniture. While the most serious complication of osteoporosis is a broken bone, there are other considerations as well, including:
The hidden nature of osteoporosis makes prevention and proactive screening especially important. Those who are 65 and older — or anyone over 50 who has fractured a bone — should talk to their doctor about a bone mineral density screening.
A bone mineral density screening may be a quick and painless test that uses an ultrasound to check your bone density level or X-ray to measure the calcium and other minerals in your bones.
Following the screening, you’ll receive a T-score — a number that signifies bone strength. A score of zero is normal, and negative numbers mean weaker bones. Your healthcare provider will help you determine a course of action based on your results.
While there are no specific medications to prevent osteoporosis recommended by the BHOF, calcium and vitamin D can help bone strength. Additionally, activities that promote balance and good posture are beneficial for your bones.
Fall prevention guide. For tips on how to prevent falls, as well as a step-by-step guide for what to do if you do fall, click here.