The Dangers Of Osteoporosis
Osteoporosis is known as the “silent thief” because there are often no warning signs or symptoms until a fracture occurs. However, there are ways to assess your risk and take action if needed.
Osteoporosis and its related fractures can have a profound impact on a person’s life, so it is important to learn more about the condition and talk to your doctor about treatment options.
~2.5 million Canadians are affected by osteoporosis
Osteoporosis Risk Factors
Osteoporosis can happen in both women and men. 1 in 3 women and up to 1 in 5 men will have an osteoporosis-related fracture in their lifetime. There are many people living with osteoporosis who are at a high risk of a fracture due to osteoporosis but have not yet been diagnosed.
Over 80% of bone fractures in people 50+ are caused by osteoporosis
The Impact of Osteoporosis
Osteoporosis can have a profound impact on day-to-day life. Simple acts such as bending over, coughing, or lifting can be all it takes to collapse a vertebra, which can lead to pain and deformity that may worsen over time. One such deformity is an obvious curve in the upper spine or hunchback-appearance (also known as kyphosis).
Women and men alike begin to lose bone in their mid-30s
Osteoporosis Prevention
Building and maintaining strong bones can improve your chances of preventing osteoporosis. Diets rich in calcium and vitamin D contribute to better overall bone health, as do specific weight-bearing and strength-training exercises.