Osteoporosis: Prevent the First Fracture
Bone density testing after 65 (women) or 70 (men), earlier with risk factors.
Healthlife Editorial Team
Medical writers
In simple terms
Bone density testing after 65 (women) or 70 (men), earlier with risk factors.
What you need to remember
- Prevention — Calcium, vitamin D, weight-bearing exercise, no smoking, moderate alcohol.
- Treatment — Bisphosphonates, denosumab, or anabolic agents for high-risk patients.
Silent until fracture. Vertebral, hip, and wrist fractures are hallmarks.
Prevention
Calcium, vitamin D, weight-bearing exercise, no smoking, moderate alcohol.
Treatment
Bisphosphonates, denosumab, or anabolic agents for high-risk patients.
After any low-trauma fracture over 50, evaluate bone health.
The words explained
Medical terms used above, in everyday language.
- Prevention
- Steps taken before a problem starts, to make it less likely.
When should you see a doctor?
- Your symptoms last more than a few weeks or keep coming back.
- They get worse quickly, or stop you doing everyday things.
- You notice sudden pain, breathing trouble, fainting or bleeding — seek urgent care.
- You already take medication and want to change anything about it.
This article explains general health information. It does not replace advice from your own doctor.
Frequently asked questions
- What is Osteoporosis: Prevent the First Fracture?
- Bone density testing after 65 (women) or 70 (men), earlier with risk factors.
- What are the main symptoms or signs of Osteoporosis: Prevent the First Fracture?
- Common signs vary from person to person. The article above lists the symptoms to watch for, how they progress, and when they need medical attention.
- When should you see a doctor for Osteoporosis: Prevent the First Fracture?
- See a doctor if symptoms last more than a few weeks, get worse quickly, stop you doing everyday things, or if you notice sudden pain, breathing trouble, fainting or bleeding.
Related health topics
Bones, Joints & Muscles
Osteoporosis: Detecting Silent Bone Loss
Osteoporosis quietly thins bones over decades. The first fracture is often the first symptom.
Diabetes & Endocrinology
Type 1 Diabetes: A Lifelong Autoimmune Disease
Type 1 diabetes accounts for 5-10% of all diabetes and most often appears in children and young adults.
Diabetes & Endocrinology
Type 2 Diabetes: Prevention Is Possible
Type 2 diabetes affects over 460 million adults. Modest weight loss reduces incidence by more than half.
Diabetes & Endocrinology
Hypothyroidism: Common, Treatable, Often Missed
An underactive thyroid affects 1-5% of adults. Symptoms are subtle, but treatment is simple and effective.
Diabetes & Endocrinology
Hyperthyroidism: When the Thyroid Races
Graves' disease is the most common cause of an overactive thyroid in adults under 50.
Diabetes & Endocrinology
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome: Far More Than Cysts
PCOS combines irregular periods, hyperandrogenism and metabolic features. Early diagnosis improves long-term outcomes.