Osteoporosis is sometimes referred to as a “silent thief” because it usually has no symptoms.

According to current estimates, approximately 1.4 million Canadians are affected by osteoporosis, or low bone mass. Approximately one in four women and one in eight men over the age of 50 have been diagnosed with this condition.

It is important to note that it is normal to lose bone mass as we age, and that the definition of osteoporosis, or low bone density, uses the bone density of a young woman as the standard or “norm.” It is therefore logical that the bone densities of many middle-aged and older women are considered low. Nevertheless, osteoporosis can potentially diminish a person’s quality of life.

Osteoporosis is sometimes referred to as a “silent thief” because it usually has no symptoms. As a woman loses bone mass and her bones become more brittle, she has an increased risk of fracturing (breaking) bones, especially in the hip, spine and wrist. However, not everyone with the condition breaks bones.

Few people realize that they have osteoporosis until their bone health reaches the point where their bones may be at risk for breaking. Being aware of good bone-health habits and making some important lifestyle changes can prevent osteoporosis, or prevent it from developing into a significant health risk.

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