World Osteoporosis Day is observed annually on 20 October, and launches a year-long campaign dedicated to raising global awareness of bone health, and of the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of osteoporosis and metabolic bone disease.
What is Osteoporosis?
According to the International Osteoporosis Foundation (IOF), worldwide, one in three women and one in five men aged 50 years and over will suffer an osteoporotic fracture. Osteoporosis causes bones to become weak and fragile, so that they break easily – even as a result of a minor fall, a bump, a sneeze, or a sudden movement. Fractures caused by osteoporosis can be life-threatening and a major cause of pain and long-term disability.
Can Osteoporosis and Fractures be Prevented?
Yes, if action is taken early! Fractures due to osteoporosis have a devastating impact on millions of people worldwide and result in enormous socio-economic costs to society and healthcare systems. Yet, despite effective medical advances to reduce fractures, a minority of men and women receive treatment.
Only 20% of patients with osteoporotic fractures are actually diagnosed or treated for osteoporosis, the underlying disease. In 2010, in Europe alone some 12.3 million people considered to be at a high risk for osteoporotic fractures were left untreated.
5 Steps to Healthy Bones and a Fracture-Free Future
- Exercise. Exercise regularly – keep your bones and muscles moving. Weight-bearing, muscle-strengthening and balance-training exercises are best.
- Nutrition. Ensure your diet is rich in bone-healthy nutrients. Calcium, vitamin D and protein are the most important for bone health. Safe exposure to sunshine will help you get enough vitamin D.
- Lifestyle. Avoid negative lifestyle habits. Maintain a healthy body weight, avoid smoking and excessive drinking.
- Risk factors. Find out whether you have risk factors Bring these to your doctor’s attention, especially if you’ve had a previous fracture, have a family history of osteoporosis, or take specific medications that affect bone health.
- Testing & Treatment. Get tested and treated if needed. If you’re at high risk you will likely need medication and lifestyle changes to help protect yourself against fractures.
Are You At Risk?
Take the IOF osteoporosis risk check by clicking here.
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