Osteoporosis in Canada: Risk Factors, Screening, and Prevention

Osteoporosis affects approximately 2 million Canadians and is responsible for over 30,000 hip fractures annually. It is often called a \"silent disease\" because bone loss occurs without symptoms until a fracture occurs. Risk factors include age over 50, female sex (especially postmenopausal), family history of osteoporosis or fracture, low body weight, smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, prolonged corticosteroid use, and conditions that reduce calcium absorption. Osteoporosis Canada recommends bone mineral density (BMD) testing (DEXA scan) for all women and men over 65, and earlier for those with risk factors. Your physician can assess your risk using the FRAX tool, which estimates 10-year fracture probability. Prevention and management include adequate calcium intake (1,200 mg/day for adults over 50), vitamin D supplementation (800 to 2,000 IU/day - especially important in Canada where winter sun exposure is limited), weight-bearing exercise (walking, jogging, dancing), resistance training, and balance exercises to prevent falls. If diagnosis is confirmed, medications such as bisphosphonates (alendronate, risedronate) can reduce fracture risk. Your physician will determine the best treatment. A telehealth appointment can initiate screening discussions and order DEXA scan requisitions. *This article is for informational purposes only.*

This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Content reviewed by licensed Canadian physicians. Last updated February 2026.