Why Osteoporosis Screening Matters
What is Osteoporosis?
Osteoporosis is a condition where bones become weak and fragile, making them more likely to break—even from a minor fall or simple movement.
Why should you care?
- 1 in 3 adults over 65 falls each year
- 1 in 2 women and 1 in 4 men over 50 will have an osteoporosis-related fracture
- A broken bone is often a turning point in independence
- Hip fractures:
- Up to 20–30% mortality within 1 year
- Many patients never regain prior mobility
- Spine fractures:
- Chronic pain, height loss, posture changes
Treating osteoporosis protects quality of life, independence, and longevity!
The Good News:
Osteoporosis is detectable and treatable!
- A simple scan (DEXA) can detect bone loss early
- Treatments can reduce fracture risk by 40–70%
- Lifestyle changes can help!
Who Should Get Screened?
All women ≥65 years
Postmenopausal women 50-65 with risk factors:
- Low body weight
- Prior fracture as an adult
- Family history of osteoporosis
- Smoking
- Long-term steroid use
- High fall risk
Why Treatment Matters
Without treatment:
- Bone loss continues silently
- Risk of fracture increases each year
With treatment:
- You actively reduce risk
- You protect mobility and independence
- You stay active longer
What you can do Today
- Ask your doctor about a DEXA scan
- Ensure adequate calcium and vitamin D
- Stay active with weight-bearing exercise
- Limit caffeine and alcohol
- Review medications and fall risks
Take Control Early!
Don’t wait for a fracture to find out your bones are weak. Screening is quick, treatment works, prevention is powerful!