Maintain Your Bone Health – Prevent Osteoporosis

Why is bone health important?

Our bones provide the framework for our body, protect vital organs, and enable movement. They support us throughout our life. However, as we age or due to certain medical conditions, bone mass, bone structure, and bone strength can decline. This can lead to osteoporosis, a condition that increases the risk of fractures. Early prevention and targeted measures can help maintain bone health and reduce fracture risk. 

What is Osteoporosis?

Osteoporosis is a condition where bones lose density and structure, becoming fragile and more prone to fractures – even from minor falls or everyday movements. Since osteoporosis progresses silently, it is often called ‘the silent thief’ and diagnosed only after a fracture has occurred. Postmenopausal women are particularly at risk due to declining estrogen levels, which accelerate bone loss. However, men can also develop osteoporosis, often due to secondary causes. It is a common disease: One in three women and one in six men over 50 years will suffer an osteoporotic fracture in their lifetime. Fractures can have devastating consequences, disrupting the lives of those affected.

Possible consequences of osteoporosis:

Increased risk of fractures, especially in the hip, spine, wrist (radius fracture), and upper arm (humerus fracture) 

Pain and reduced mobility 

Postural changes, e.g. rounded back and height loss

Decreased quality of life and loss of independence 

Need for long-term care as well as higher mortality risk 

Osteoporosis is preventable – early prevention is key

Early diagnosis and, if necessary, treatment can reduce fracture risk, help maintain mobility and quality of life, and lower healthcare costs. However, many people are unaware of their risk. That’s why early screening is essential to detect osteoporosis in time and to begin preventive measures – whether lifestyle changes or medical treatment –to reduce the risk of fractures. 

Many people also believe that bone loss and fractures are an inevitable part of aging. But that’s not true! You can take steps yourself to significantly reduce your risk: 

  • Balanced nutrition: Calcium and vitamin D are essential for strong bones, along with sufficient protein. 
  • Regular exercise: Strength and balance training help maintain bone density, strengthen muscles, and reduce the risk of falls. 
  • Avoid risk factors: Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption accelerate bone loss. 
  • Routine bone check-ups: Early diagnosis improves the chances of effective treatment. 

Take care of your bones!

Osteoporotic fractures can often be prevented. Early prevention, a bone-healthy lifestyle, and targeted medical measures can help maintain bone strength and reduce fracture risk.  

Talk to your doctor and learn more about prevention options. 

Helpful links:

Here we compiled for you a small selection of interesting resources.

 

Are you affected or at increased risk of osteoporosis?

 

Are you a healthcare professional looking for detailed information and updates? 

Let us all join the call of the community: 
No More Broken Bones. No More Broken Lives. 

Disclaimer: This site does not replace medical advice. For health concerns, please consult a doctor. We are not responsible for the content of external links.

Focus on Stronger Pig Bones
The Swiss breeding company Suisag, FBN Dummerstorf, and POROUS have launched the “PigBoneS” project to breed pigs with improved phosphorus utilization and stronger bones.

POROUS uses a non-invasive 3D ultrasound method to measure bone density and stability in slaughtered animals, primarily Swiss Large White pigs. The forefoot (metacarpus) serves as an indicator of bone health, complemented by blood analyses for phosphorus utilization markers. The aim is to identify genetic markers for these traits.

The project promotes bone health while reducing phosphorus excretion. It is supported by the Eureka Eurostars program, Innosuisse, and the German Federal Ministry of Education and Research (BMBF).