What Is Osteoporosis?
Posted Tuesday, April 8, 2025Did you know? More than 50 million people in the U.S. have osteoporosis, most of which are women.
A majority of those who develop osteoporosis are over the age of 50.
Osteoporosis is a common disease that weakens bones. Osteoporosis occurs when the creation of new bone cannot keep up with the loss of old bone. Those with osteoporosis are more likely to experience broken bones and fractures. Osteoporosis-related breaks most commonly occur in the hip, wrist or spine.
01 | Symptoms
There are generally no symptoms in the early stages of bone loss. Even though osteoporosis may not directly cause symptoms, there are some warning signs:
- Lower back pain
- Loss of height over time
- A stooped posture
The most common symptom is suddenly breaking a bone, especially after a small fall or minor accident that would usually not result in a break or fracture.
02 | Risk Factors
Though anyone can develop osteoporosis, several factors may make someone more at risk, such as those who are over the age of 50, women, or of white or Asian descent.
Other risk factors include:
- A family history of osteoporosis
- Smoking or using tobacco products
- Endocrine disorders
- Having smaller body frames
- Irregular hormone levels
03 | Treatment
When treating osteoporosis, the primary focus is on preventing bone fractures. A combination of treatments is normally used to slow down bone loss and strengthen existing bone tissue, including:
- Exercise
- Vitamin and mineral supplements
- Maintaining a healthy, balanced diet with calcium, Vitamin D and protein
- Hormone therapy medications
Learn More
For more information on osteoporosis and supportive resources, please visit mayoclinic.org/osteoporosis.
References
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/4443-osteoporosis
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/osteoporosis/symptoms-causes/syc-20351968
https://medlineplus.gov/osteoporosis.html
https://orthoinfo.aaos.org/en/diseases--conditions/osteoporosis/
2026