Osteoporosis is a condition that affects bones, making them fragile and increasing the risk of fractures. It is most common in older adults, particularly women, but can also affect younger people.

Here are six facts about osteoporosis that you may not know.

1. Osteoporosis is often called the ‘silent disease’

One of the reasons that osteoporosis is such a dangerous condition is that it often goes unnoticed until a bone is fractured.

This has led to it being referred to as the ‘silent disease’, as people may not realize that they have it until they take a fall or experience some other injury. Once someone has had one osteoporotic fracture, they are much more likely to experience future fractures, so it is important to identify and treat the condition as early as possible.

2. Milk and dairy may not be the best sources of calcium

Calcium is essential for strong bones, and many people assume that the best way to get it is by consuming milk and other dairy products. However, research has shown that there are many other sources of calcium that can be just as effective.

These include leafy greens such as spinach and kale, as well as fortified foods like tofu, orange juice, and cereal. Some studies have even suggested that a diet high in animal protein, such as that found in meat and dairy, may actually increase the risk of osteoporosis.

3. Exercise can help prevent osteoporosis

Along with a healthy diet, exercise is one of the most important ways to prevent osteoporosis. Weight-bearing exercises like jogging, jumping jacks, and stair climbing are particularly effective, as they help to build up bone density.

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Resistance training, such as lifting weights or using resistance bands, can also be beneficial. However, people with osteoporosis should be careful not to overdo it, as excessive strain on the bones can lead to fractures.

4. Certain medications can increase the risk of osteoporosis

Some medications have been linked to an increased risk of osteoporosis, particularly if they are used over a long period of time.

These include corticosteroids, which are commonly used to treat inflammatory conditions like asthma and arthritis, as well as some medications used to treat breast cancer. If you are taking these medications, it is important to talk to your healthcare provider about ways to minimize your risk of osteoporosis.

5. Smoking and excessive drinking can increase the risk of osteoporosis

Along with a healthy lifestyle, certain behaviors can increase the risk of osteoporosis. Smoking is one of the biggest culprits, as it can interfere with the body’s ability to absorb calcium and other minerals.

Excessive alcohol consumption can also be detrimental to bone health, as it can lead to reduced bone density and an increased risk of fractures. In addition, both smoking and excessive drinking have been linked to lower levels of physical activity, which can further exacerbate the risk of osteoporosis.

6. Osteoporosis can be treated and managed

If you are diagnosed with osteoporosis, it is important to remember that the condition can be treated and managed. Medications like bisphosphonates and hormone therapy can help to slow down the bone loss and reduce the risk of fractures.

In addition, lifestyle changes such as improving your diet, increasing your exercise, and quitting smoking or reducing alcohol consumption can also be effective. Regular bone density scans are also important to monitor the progression of the condition and ensure that your treatment plan is working effectively.