Osteoporosis: protecting your bones at any age
1 in 3 women and 1 in 5 men after 50 years old
Dr. Marc Lefèvre
Rheumatologist
In simple terms
Calcium, vitamin D, physical activity, anti-resorption treatments: preventing devastating fractures.
Bone, a living tissue that becomes fragile
Osteoporosis is characterized by a decrease in bone mass and an alteration of its microarchitecture, increasing the risk of fractures (vertebrae, femoral neck, wrist). Often silent until the first fracture.
Preventive Solutions
- Calcium intake: 1000-1200 mg/day (dairy products, mineral water, sardines)
- Vitamin D: sun exposure, supplementation (800-1000 IU/day)
- Weight-bearing physical activity: walking, light running, strength training
- Smoking cessation, moderate alcohol consumption
- Fall prevention: ophthalmology, podiatry, environment
Medication Solutions
Bisphosphonates (alendronate, risedronate, zoledronate): inhibit bone resorption, first-line treatment.
Denosumab (Prolia): subcutaneous injection every 6 months.
Teriparatide and romosozumab: anabolic treatments for severe forms.
HRT in postmenopausal women with specific indications.
Screening
Bone densitometry (BMD) after age 65 for women, or earlier if risk factors (early menopause, prolonged corticosteroid therapy, family history).
The words explained
Medical terms used above, in everyday language.
- Risk factor
- Something that makes an illness more likely, such as smoking or family history.
- Prevention
- Steps taken before a problem starts, to make it less likely.
- Screening
- A check-up done before you feel ill, to catch a problem early.
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: protecting your bones at any age?
- Calcium, vitamin D, physical activity, anti-resorption treatments: preventing devastating fractures.
- What are the main symptoms or signs of Osteoporosis: protecting your bones at any age?
- 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: protecting your bones at any age?
- 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.
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