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.
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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.
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