World Osteoporosis Day: Prevention Protects Bone Health

Osteoporosis is a chronic skeletal condition characterized by reduced bone density and deterioration in bone quality and strength. As a result, bones become more fragile and the risk of fractures increases.

20 October, World Osteoporosis Day, is an important opportunity to raise awareness about bone health. Osteoporosis can develop over many years without noticeable symptoms, while timely assessment can help prevent complications and preserve quality of life.

Bones are living tissues that are constantly renewed. Throughout life, old bone tissue is broken down and replaced by new tissue. However, when bone loss exceeds the formation of new bone, bone density decreases. Over time, bones may become more fragile and more susceptible to fractures, even following a relatively minor injury or a fall.

Osteoporosis can affect both men and women, and the risk increases with age. In women, bone loss may accelerate after menopause due to hormonal changes.

The risk of developing osteoporosis is influenced by several factors, including:

• Age
• Menopause
• A family history of osteoporosis or fractures
• Previous fractures resulting from minor trauma
• Low levels of physical activity
• Low body weight
• Smoking
• Excessive alcohol consumption
• Inadequate calcium and vitamin D intake
• Certain medical conditions or medications that affect bone metabolism

Having one or more risk factors does not necessarily mean that a person has osteoporosis. However, it is a reason to discuss the need for preventive screening with a healthcare professional.

One of the most important characteristics of osteoporosis is that it usually causes no symptoms in its early stages.

For this reason, it is often described as a “silent” condition. A person may have reduced bone density without being aware of it until a fracture occurs.

In more advanced stages, symptoms may include:

• Back pain, particularly in the event of a vertebral fracture
• Loss of height
• Changes in posture or a hunched back (kyphosis)
• Fractures following minor trauma

Osteoporosis-related fractures most commonly affect the spine, hip and wrist.

Bone health assessment is based on medical history, risk factors and, when appropriate, specialized examinations.

Bone mineral density measurement using DEXA (dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry) is a key examination for assessing bone density and is used to evaluate bone health and fracture risk. It is a painless, non-invasive examination that uses a low dose of radiation.

The measurement helps the physician assess bone health and, in combination with other medical history and clinical findings, determine whether further investigation or treatment is needed.

Laboratory testing can help assess bone metabolism and identify factors that may affect bone health.

Depending on the individual case, a physician may recommend tests such as:

• Ca – Calcium
• P – Phosphorus
• PTH – Parathyroid Hormone
• 25-D – 25-OH Vitamin D

The results are evaluated by the treating physician in conjunction with the patient’s medical history and other clinical findings.

Osteoporosis management is individualized and depends on age, bone density, fracture history, risk factors and overall health.

Bone health care may include the following:

Adequate intake of calcium, vitamin D and other essential nutrients contributes to maintaining normal bone function.

Exercise tailored to each person’s abilities and needs helps maintain muscle strength and bone health. Fall prevention is also particularly important, especially among older adults.

Quitting smoking, limiting alcohol consumption and maintaining an active lifestyle are important components of overall bone health.

For people at increased risk of fractures, a physician may recommend medication to strengthen bones and reduce fracture risk.

The most appropriate treatment is selected on an individual basis by the treating physician.

Osteoporosis can remain “silent” for a long time. That is why raising awareness, recognizing risk factors and undergoing appropriate preventive screening are particularly important.

Taking care of bone health is not just about managing osteoporosis. It is also about preserving mobility, independence and quality of life.

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To mark World Osteoporosis Day, Euromedica, as part of its Corporate Social Responsibility initiatives, is offering a Special Osteoporosis Screening Package for just €35.

The package includes:

• Bone Mineral Density Measurement (one site)
• Ca – Calcium
• P – Phosphorus
• PTH – Parathyroid Hormone
• 25-D – 25-OH Vitamin D

The offer is valid from 20 October 2026 through 30 November 2026.

For more information about the Special Osteoporosis Screening Package, please contact any Euromedica diagnostic center by phone or complete the “Book an Appointment” form on our website.

Prevention starts with a check-up.