Osteoporosis explained.
Know your bone health.

Understanding the condition

What is osteoporosis?

Osteoporosis reduces bone strength as density and quality decline. Fragile bones can break after a minor fall or injury, particularly at the hip, spine or wrist.

It is often called a “silent disease” because bone loss may go unnoticed until a fracture occurs. It affects men as well as women.

A fracture after a minor injury is a reason to discuss bone health with your doctor.

Know your risk

Who should ask for advice?

Your doctor considers your individual history when deciding whether assessment is appropriate. Factors worth discussing include:

• Older age and menopause.
• A previous low-impact fracture or family history of hip fracture.
• Low body weight, smoking or heavy alcohol use.
• Long-term corticosteroid use and other medicines or conditions affecting bone.

There is no single screening age that suits everyone.

Bone density imaging

How can a DXA scan help?

DXA, also called DEXA, uses a low dose of X-rays to measure bone mineral density, usually at the spine and hips.

The results help your doctor assess osteoporosis and fracture risk, and may help monitor treatment. A scan cannot predict with certainty whether you will break a bone.

Everyday bone health

Support stronger bones.

• Eat a balanced diet with enough calcium and protein, and discuss vitamin D needs with your clinician.
• Keep active with suitable weight-bearing, strength and balance exercise.
• Avoid smoking and excessive alcohol.
• Reduce fall hazards and seek advice about balance or mobility concerns.

If you already have osteoporosis or fractures, ask which activities are appropriate for you. Lifestyle measures support care; your doctor may also recommend treatment.