When we think of growing older, we often picture gray hair, reading glasses, or slower steps. What we do not always see is what is happening inside our bodies. 

Osteoporosis — often called the “silent thief” — weakens bones over time without symptoms, until a fracture suddenly exposes its devastating effects.

Lolo Johnny’s story: A personal reminder

I remember my mom’s uncle — my grand uncle — Lolo Johnny, as a man full of energy and love. He was a devoted husband, father and grandfather who filled family gatherings with music from his ukulele, even in his later years. 

Before we could make a visit to see him in Hawaii, he suffered a fall that broke his hip. Despite his spirit, he never fully recovered and passed away soon after.

His story is not unique. Hip fractures are among the most serious complications of osteoporosis. They can rob people of independence, mobility, and as in Lolo Johnny’s case, even life itself.

Osteoporosis: The global burden 

Every three seconds, someone worldwide suffers a fracture due to osteoporosis. After age 50, one in three women and one in five men will experience one. These fractures can lead to disability, loss of independence, and sadly, death.

This October, we are reminded of the importance of being more aware of this condition. In the Philippines, the second week of October is designated as National Osteoporosis Awareness Week. Globally, 20 October is World Osteoporosis Day. Both observances highlight that bone health is worth protecting across every stage of life.

Understanding and diagnosing osteoporosis

Osteoporosis literally means “porous bone.” In healthy bones, a dense honeycomb structure provides strength. With osteoporosis, that structure thins out, making bones fragile.

Increasing age increases the risk for developing osteoporosis, but osteoporosis is not a consequence of aging. Not all elderly persons will develop osteoporosis.

Other risk factors include:

Menopause

Family history of osteoporosis and fracture

Low body weight

Smoking and excessive alcohol use

Diet low in calcium and vitamin D

Sedentary lifestyle

Diagnosis is crucial because osteoporosis is often silent until a fracture. The gold standard is the dual-energy X-ray Absorptiometry (DXA) scan, which measures bone mineral density (BMD). A T-score of –2.5 or lower indicates osteoporosis. Tools like the Fracture Risk Assessment Tool (FRAX) score help estimate fracture risk, and blood tests may be ordered to check vitamin D, calcium, thyroid or parathyroid function.

Prevention: 

Never too early or late

The foundation for strong bones is built in childhood and young adulthood, but protection is important at every age.