08/11/2025
What Is Osteoporosis?
Osteoporosis is a condition that weakens bones. It happens when bones lose density (or mass), making them more fragile and more likely to break—even from minor falls or injuries.
Why Does Osteoporosis Matter?
Around the world, 1 in 3 women and 1 in 5 men over age 50 will break a bone due to osteoporosis.
In the U.S. alone, 10 million people have osteoporosis, and 34 million have low bone mass (a condition called osteopenia that may lead to osteoporosis).
Fractures in the spine can lead to height loss, trouble breathing, and even a shortened lifespan.
Hip fractures are especially serious—about half of people who suffer one may never fully recover.
The impact goes beyond health—osteoporosis creates a major economic burden for individuals and healthcare systems.
