Osteoporosis Basics

Click a card to learn more about osteoporosis.

What is osteoporosis?

Osteoporosis is a condition in which bone density and strength decrease, making fractures more likely to occur even from minor impacts. Because bones weaken gradually, there are often few noticeable symptoms until a fracture occurs.

Why it's common after menopause

After menopause, women's bone-protecting estrogen production drops sharply, which is known to accelerate bone density loss and significantly raise osteoporosis risk.

Overview of bone density testing

A bone density scan (DXA, dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry) is the standard test used to diagnose osteoporosis by measuring bone density. Results are expressed as a T-score, used to categorize results as normal, osteopenia, or osteoporosis.

Risk factors

Insufficient calcium and vitamin D intake, lack of exercise, smoking and heavy drinking, a thin body frame, family history, and long-term use of certain medications are known to raise osteoporosis risk.

Common fracture sites

Osteoporosis-related fractures occur especially often in the wrist, spine, and hip — hip fractures in particular require special attention since they can severely limit mobility and lead to further complications.

Lifestyle habits for prevention

Adequate calcium and vitamin D intake, weight-bearing and strength exercise, and quitting smoking and limiting alcohol are generally considered helpful lifestyle habits for maintaining bone density. If osteoporosis is suspected or diagnosed, always consult a doctor to decide on a management plan.

What osteoporosis is

Osteoporosis is often called a "silent disease" because it produces almost no symptoms until a fracture occurs. This page is provided for general informational purposes — if you suspect osteoporosis or are concerned about fracture risk, be sure to consult a doctor for testing.

Its link to thyroid disease

Thyroid disease, especially hyperthyroidism, is known to be one of the factors that can accelerate bone density loss, so it's important to manage it together if you have a thyroid condition.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does osteoporosis only affect women?

It's more common in women, but men can also develop osteoporosis as they age or due to certain conditions or medications.

Can I prevent it just by taking a lot of calcium?

Calcium intake can help, but since vitamin D, exercise, and lifestyle habits all play a role together, calcium alone is unlikely to be sufficient.