Osteoporosis is often called a “silent disease” because it develops without noticeable symptoms. Many people only discover they have it after suffering a fracture — a serious event that can lead to chronic pain, disability, and even loss of independence.
The good news? Osteoporosis can be prevented and managed. With early detection, people at risk can take proactive steps to protect and strengthen their bones.
A common but overlooked condition
According to the Bone Health and Osteoporosis Foundation, an estimated 10 million Americans are living with osteoporosis, and another 44 million have low bone density — placing them at increased risk for fractures.
Despite how widespread it is, osteoporosis often goes undiagnosed until it’s too late. It’s commonly misunderstood as a condition that only affects older women, but both women and men are at risk. In fact, 1 in 2 women over 50 and 1 in 5 men will experience an osteoporosis-related fracture in their lifetime.
Osteoporosis causes bones to become fragile and brittle, making them more likely to break even from a minor fall or bump. The most common fracture sites are the hip, spine, and wrist.
Getting screened for osteoporosis
Screening plays a key role in early detection.
The gold standard for osteoporosis screening is to combine a bone density test and a Trabecular Bone Score (TBS) test that looks at bone microarchitecture.
Both tests are performed at the same time through a DXA scanning machine.
Together, these tests provide a full picture of bone strength and fracture risk. If tests reveal signs of bone weakness, your physician can recommend lifestyle changes and treatments to help strengthen your bones and prevent fractures.
Boosting your bone strength
It’s never too early — or too late — to start caring for your bones.
Here are a few simple but powerful steps:
- Eat a bone-friendly diet: include plenty of calcium, vitamin D, magnesium, vitamin K, and zinc.
- Exercise regularly: focus on weight-bearing and strength-training exercises to improve bone density and mobility.
- Avoid harmful habits: quit smoking and limit alcohol, both of which can weaken bones.
If you’re concerned about your bone health, speak with your physician to determine whether you should be screened or take preventive action.
