Osteoporosis is a skeletal disorder characterized by compromised bone strength and deterioration of bone microarchitecture, predisposing individuals to unexpected fragility fractures. Because bone loss occurs without pain, proactive screening is essential for preserving independence.
Who Should Have a Bone Density Test?
Under Osteoporosis Canada clinical practice guidelines, bone mineral density (BMD) testing via dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) is recommended for:
- All women and men aged 65 and older
- Adults aged 50 to 64 with clinical risk factors:
- Prior fragility fracture occurring from a fall from standing height or less after age 40
- Prolonged use of systemic glucocorticoid medications (such as prednisone for 3+ months)
- Parental history of hip fracture
- Early menopause (before age 45)
- Current smoking or high alcohol intake (3+ units daily)
- Low body weight (under 60 kg) or major weight loss (>10% since age 25)
Preventive Lifestyle Strategies for Bone Strength
Maintaining mineralized bone matrix requires consistent daily habits:
- Calcium: Aim for 1,000 mg to 1,200 mg of elemental calcium daily, ideally through calcium-rich dietary sources (dairy, fortified soy beverages, canned salmon with bones, almonds, and leafy greens).
- Vitamin D: Osteoporosis Canada recommends 800 to 2,000 IU of supplemental vitamin D3 daily for Canadian adults year-round, as sunlight synthesis is negligible in Canadian latitudes from October through April.
- Weight-Bearing & Resistance Exercise: Brisk walking, climbing stairs, and light resistance training stimulate osteoblast bone formation and reinforce core balance to prevent falls.
🦴 Discuss Your Bone Health at Medi Plus Clinic
Our physicians assess fracture risk using validated 10-year tools (FRAX or CAROC) and arrange covered DEXA referrals. For sudden severe back pain following a minor fall, seek evaluation at Peter Lougheed Centre or call Health Link at 811.
