Osteoporosis in Canadian Women: Building Strong Bones for a Healthy Life

Author: Shali Tayebi, MSc Global Health, University of Copenhagen // 

Osteoporosis is a metabolic bone disease that is a major public health issue. It also places a tremendous physical, emotional and mental burden on those who it afflicts. Over 200 million people worldwide are affected by osteoporosis. There are 2.2 million people with osteoporosis in Canada — a country with a growing and ageing population [3,7]. 

The disease is characterized by weakening bones, which increases the risk of fractures. Most often, people live with bone loss for many years without knowledge of their condition until their first fracture — most commonly in their hip, wrist, or spine. Physical consequences can include reduced mobility, disability, chronic pain, loss of height, and premature death [7].