Osteoporosis

What is osteoporosis?

Osteoporosis is a common bone disease. By learning more about it, you can protect yourself and keep your bones healthy.

The disease causes your bones to lose calcium, become thin and weak, and break easily. Your chances of developing it increase as you get older, and it’s most common in non-Hispanic white women and Asian women.

People with osteoporosis have a higher risk of:

Hip fractures and future fractured bones
Blood clots in the legs
Mental health issues
Broken bones from a minor fall or severe sneezing

The warning signs of osteoporosis

Osteoporosis is known as the “silent disease” because there are usually no symptoms until a bone is broken or fractured. Still, here are some possible signs or symptoms you should look for:

Loss of movement

Severe, chronic, or long-lasting pain

Height loss caused by a hump in the back

Stooped posture

What puts me at risk?

Some risk factors that might lead to osteoporosis include:

Being older than 50
Having a family history of osteoporosis
Smoking
Drinking a moderate to heavy amount of alcohol
Sitting and not moving a lot
Not getting enough calcium
Being underweight

Keep in mind, certain medical conditions and medications may weaken your bones. This makes it more likely for you to have osteoporosis. Conditions include Cushing’s syndrome, diabetes, or high blood sugar. Medications include corticosteroids or thyroid medications.

Is there anything I can do to prevent it?

Yes, you can:

Get sunshine exposure for 15 to 20 minutes, three times a week.
Get moving by walking, jogging, dancing, gardening, and more.
Take prescribed osteoporosis medication.
Take supplements (but check with your healthcare provider as too much vitamin D can be harmful).
Eat foods high in calcium and vitamin D, such as:
- Milk, cheese, and yogurt
- Leafy, green vegetables
- Soybeans
- Certain types of fish

The importance of bone density testing

A bone mineral density test is used to find out if you’re at risk for osteoporosis or have it. This test uses a special type of X-ray to look at your bone density or thickness. It’s painless and only takes about 10-30 minutes.

Your test results are called a “T-score.” A T-score of -1 or higher is normal. A T-score of -2.5 or lower may mean you have osteoporosis.

If you’re at risk or if you have osteoporosis, your provider will help make a plan to protect your bones.

So, how do I schedule a bone density test?

Download and sign in to our Sydney Health app or your plan website to schedule a doctor visit. If your provider determines you need a bone density test, they'll order one for you.

Some things to keep in mind before you go:

Tell your healthcare provider about any times you’ve fallen, even if you weren't hurt.
Mention any broken bones you've had.
Discuss any medications you're taking.
Talk about your diet and how much calcium and vitamin D you're getting.
Ask about exercise options that might work best for you.
Discuss other tests you may need — if appropriate, you may be able to get a mammogram at the same time as a bone density test.

You can also use the app and plan portal to schedule appointments with:

Your doctor or primary care provider (PCP)
Network labs
Specialists

Fashionable mature woman enjoying walk in nature with dog

Regular mammograms are important, too

Most women between the ages of 50 and 74 (or younger if at high risk) should get a mammogram every year or two, or as recommended by their doctor.

Learn more