NIAMS: Osteoporosis (causes, risk factors and prevention)

Tier 1: Established: peer-reviewed research or government health authority
Publisher: National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases (NIAMS), National Institutes of Health · Published: September 17, 2026 · Accessed: September 17, 2026

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Claims this source supports

• Osteoporosis develops when bone mineral density and bone mass decrease, or when the structure and strength of bone change, increasing fracture risk.
• Osteoporosis is called a silent disease because there are typically no symptoms, and it is the major cause of fractures in postmenopausal women.
• For many women, the disease begins to develop a year or two before menopause.
• Steps that help prevent osteoporosis and fractures include staying physically active with weight-bearing exercise such as walking, moderating alcohol, not smoking, taking prescribed medications, and eating a nutritious diet rich in calcium and vitamin D.
• Fractures in osteoporosis can occur from minor falls, or from normal stresses such as bending, lifting, or even coughing.