Osteoporosis affects 500 million people globally

Osteoporosis affects approximately 500 million people globally. According to the International Osteoporosis Foundation, one in three women and one in five men over the age of 50 will experience an osteoporosis-related fracture in their lifetime. Annually, up to 37 million fragility fractures are recorded in individuals over 55.

In Greece, 53% of the population exhibits low bone density, with 684,000 people officially diagnosed with the condition. Among Greeks over 60, 19% of women and 11% of men have been diagnosed. Risk factors include age, family history, low body weight, sedentary lifestyle, and hormonal changes such as menopause.

Bone health is established during childhood and adolescence through the development of peak bone mass. Maintaining bone density in adulthood requires a balanced diet rich in calcium and protein, adequate vitamin D, and regular weight-bearing and muscle-strengthening exercises.