Osteoporosis
Act before the first fracture
Osteoporosis weakens bones silently, often until a minor fall ends in a fracture. Knowing your risk early is the best way to stay mobile and independent.
1 in 3
women over 50 will suffer an osteoporotic fracture in their lifetime
1 in 5
men over 50 will suffer an osteoporotic fracture in their lifetime
200 million+
people are affected by osteoporosis worldwide
Every 3 s
an osteoporotic fracture occurs somewhere in the world
Source: International Osteoporosis Foundation
What is osteoporosis?
Our bones are the framework of the body. They protect vital organs, enable movement and support us throughout life. With age, or as a result of certain medical conditions, bone mass, bone structure and bone strength can decline.
Osteoporosis is the condition in which bones lose density and structure and become fragile. Even a minor fall or an everyday movement can then cause a fracture. It is a common disease: one in three women and one in five men over 50 will suffer an osteoporotic fracture.
The silent thief
Bone loss causes no pain and no visible symptoms. That is why osteoporosis is often diagnosed only after a fracture has already happened.
Postmenopausal women are at particular risk, because declining estrogen levels accelerate bone loss. Men can be affected too, often due to secondary causes.
What osteoporosis can lead to
A fracture caused by osteoporosis is rarely a single event. It often changes everyday life for a long time.
Fractures
Especially of the hip, spine, wrist (radius) and upper arm (humerus), often after only a minor fall.
Reduced Quality of Life & Increased Mortality
Fractures can cause lasting pain and make everyday movement harder, which can impair patients’ quality of life. Fractures are also associated with an increased risk of dying earlier.
Loss of independence
Postural changes such as a rounded back and limited mobility reduce quality of life and independence.
Long-term care
Severe fractures can lead to a need for long-term care and are associated with a higher mortality risk.
Osteoporosis is preventable
Bone loss and fractures are not an inevitable part of ageing. Early diagnosis and, where needed, treatment reduce fracture risk, help maintain mobility and quality of life, and lower healthcare costs. You can also take steps yourself:
Balanced nutrition
Calcium and vitamin D are essential for strong bones, together with sufficient protein.
Regular exercise
Strength and balance training 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 prevention and treatment.
Insights today for strong bones tomorrow.
Osteoporotic fractures can often be prevented. Talk to your doctor about your bone health and the prevention options available to you, and learn how POROUS is working to detect bone loss earlier.
Helpful resources
A selection of trusted organisations with further information on osteoporosis.
For patients and families
Royal Osteoporosis Society
Information about the disease, facts, patient stories and bone-strengthening exercise programmes.
International Osteoporosis Foundation
Support groups, nutrition guidance and much more for patients.
Bone Health & Osteoporosis Foundation
Practical tips for living with osteoporosis.
For healthcare professionals
IOF for health professionals
Webinars and updates on osteoporosis from around the world.
BoneSource by BHOF
Extensive clinical knowledge and professional education.
ASBMR Education Resource Center
Latest basic, clinical and translational bone research, e-learning and an education calendar.
Disclaimer: POROUS is not responsible for the content of external links.