Osteoporosis is a condition where bones become fragile, brittle and more prone to fractures due to loss of bone mass and structural integrity. It’s often called a silent disease, because it progresses slowly and without symptoms, until a sudden fracture occurs, often in the hip, spine or wrist.
In the context of healthy aging, osteoporosis is a major cause of frailty, loss of independence and reduced quality of life. Maintaining strong bones is not just about avoiding fractures, it’s about preserving mobility, confidence and the ability to live actively well into later life.
What causes osteoporosis
Bone is a living tissue that is constantly being broken down and rebuilt. Osteoporosis develops when the rate of bone resorption (breakdown) outpaces bone formation, leading to decreased bone mineral density and weakened structure.
Key drivers of osteoporosis include:
- Hormonal changes, particularly declining estrogen in women after menopause or low testosterone in men;
- Deficiencies in calcium, vitamin D, protein and other bone-building nutrients;
- Sedentary lifestyle, which reduces bone stimulation;
- Medications such as corticosteroids and certain cancer treatments;
- Smoking, alcohol and chronic inflammation.
While bone loss is a natural part of aging, osteoporosis is not inevitable and can often be prevented or slowed.
Signs, symptoms and diagnosis
Osteoporosis is often asymptomatic until a fracture occurs. However, early signs may include:
- Loss of height or a stooped posture (kyphosis);
- Back pain from vertebral compression fractures;
- Increased tendency for bone fractures from minor falls or even coughing.
Diagnosis typically involves a bone mineral density (BMD) test, such as a DEXA scan. This test provides a T-score that compares our bone density to that of a healthy young adult. A T-score of −2.5 or lower indicates osteoporosis.
Risk factors for developing osteoporosis
Understanding risk factors is key for early intervention. These include:
- Age over 50, especially in women;
- Menopause or hormonal disorders;
- Family history of osteoporosis or fractures;
- Low body weight or poor muscle mass (sarcopenia);
- Low calcium and vitamin D intake;
- Chronic diseases such as celiac disease, rheumatoid arthritis or thyroid imbalance;
- Smoking, excessive alcohol or longterm medication use.
Many of these risk factors are modifiable, which makes early lifestyle adjustments especially impactful.
Osteoporosis and healthy aging
Osteoporosis is one of the leading causes of age related disability. Its impact includes:
- Increased risk of hip fractures, which have high rates of complications and mortality in older adults;
- Vertebral fractures that lead to chronic pain and postural deformity;
- Reduced mobility and fear of falling, which contributes to physical and social isolation;
- Longer recovery times and higher risk of institutionalization.
Preventing osteoporosis is essential for maintaining physical independence, balance, confidence and longevity.
Osteoporosis in longevity science
Osteoporosis is more than a bone issue, it’s a sign of biological aging, often linked with:
- Sarcopenia (muscle loss);
- Chronic inflammation (inflammaging);
- Oxidative stress and mitochondrial decline;
- Hormonal changes, especially involving estrogen, testosterone and cortisol.
Bone health is now recognized as a biomarker of resilience. Interventions that support bone density are also likely to improve mobility, metabolic health and neurological function.
Research into bone regenerating peptides, stem cell therapies and nutrient-hormone synergy is expanding as interest grows in preserving skeletal integrity throughout the lifespan.
Osteoporosis is one of the most common and costly age-related conditions, but also one of the most preventable. Strong bones are essential for mobility, balance and independence, especially in the later decades of life.
By combining targeted nutrition, exercise, hormonal balance and early screening, we can preserve bone strength, avoid fractures and enhance our chances of living a longer, more active life.
