What is osteoporosis?
Osteoporosis is a disease characterized by low bone mass and deterioration of bone tissue, which can lead to increased risk of fracture. Known as the “silent thief”, bone deterioration can occur over a number of years without presenting any symptoms. Unfortunately, if detected at the time of a break, the disease is already fairly advanced. The most common fractures associated with osteoporosis are in the hip, spine, wrist, and shoulder. Today, no single cause for osteoporosis has been identified.
Fast Facts
At least 1 in 3 women and 1 in 5 men will suffer from an osteoporotic fracture during their lifetime
2 million Canadians are affected by osteoporosis
Peak bone mass is achieved at an early age (16-20 in young women and 20-25 in young men), so building strong bones during childhood and adolescence can be the best defense against developing osteoporosis later in life.
Donate
Osteoporosis Canada, a registered charity, is the only national organization serving people who have, or are at risk for, osteoporosis. We work to educate, empower and support individuals and communities in the risk-reduction and treatment of osteoporosis. But we can’t do it alone.
Donate NowLatest News
Do You Know Your Risk?
Do you Know Your Risk? For most Canadians, everyday staircases, sidewalks and park slopes are nothing to be feared.
Read MoreOC’s First FLS Audit Report
The results from Osteoporosis Canada’s first national Fracture Liaison Service (FLS) audit demonstrate the positive impact of Canadian FLSs on the lives of fragility fracture patients. The...
Read MoreCAHC Fellow Award
The Canadian Academy of Health Sciences (CAHS) is a constituent of the Council of Canadian Academies, which was established in 2005.
Read More