Prevention
Bone Health
Strong bones are built early and protected through midlife. Simple steps prevent fractures later.
Overview
What is happening?
Bone density peaks in early adulthood, then gradually declines — faster after menopause. Weight-bearing exercise, strength training, and adequate calcium and vitamin D all help protect against osteoporosis.
A bone-density (DEXA) scan is recommended at certain ages or risk levels. Preventing fractures is far easier than treating them.
Reassurance
What's normal
Gradual change with age
Some bone loss over time is expected and manageable.
Worth attention
What to watch for
Signals worth raising with a clinician — not causes for alarm.
Loss of height or stooping
Can signal bone changes worth assessing.
Fractures from minor falls
A break from a small fall deserves evaluation.
Self-advocacy
Questions to ask your doctor
Bring these to your next visit. Good questions lead to better care.
Should I have a DEXA scan?
Am I getting enough calcium and vitamin D?
- Last reviewed
- March 2026
- Reviewer
- Dr. A. Reviewer, MD (Endocrinology) — placeholder
- Evidence
- Strong
References
- Peer-reviewed guidance (placeholder)