Osteoporosis is a chronic disease of bone in which the bone mass is reduced, leading to weak and brittle bones that are at higher risk of fractures. Osteoporosis itself has no specific symptoms and is usually clinically silent until a fracture occurs. Bone is living tissue that is constantly being broken down and rebuilt. In general, bone mass is most rapidly built during childhood and adolescence and reaches a peak at about age 30. Thereafter, a gradual decline of bone mass begins, as more bone tissue is lost than is regenerated. Bone loss is a normal process of aging and occurs in both genders. However, inadequate peak bone mass and/or excessive bone loss increases one’s risk of osteoporosis. Men don't generally experience the rapid bone loss in their 50's as women do after menopause; however, by age 65 to 70, they start to lose bone mass at the same rate as women. Osteoporosis can thus occur in both men and women. Many risk factors for the disease are related to our lifestyle and are preventable.

Try this test to assess your risk of osteoporosis and learn more about its prevention.

1. Have you ever broken a bone after a minor fall (a fall from standing height or less) after you have reached adulthood?

a) Yes

b) No