World Osteoporosis Day 2026

About the event

• Building Strong Bones Early: Up to 90% of peak bone mass is achieved by age 18 in girls and age 20 in boys, making nutrition and lifestyle habits in youth critical for lifelong skeletal health. • Optimal Nutrition: How to get sufficient calcium, vitamin D, protein, and safe sun exposure to support bone density. • Physical Activity & Exercise: The role of weight-bearing exercise, muscle-strengthening, balance training, and adapted movement (such as specialized Pilates or yoga) in preventing bone loss and falls. • Risk Factor Identification: Recognizing warning signs like minor falls, sudden back pain, loss of height, or a stooped posture, as well as avoiding risk factors like smoking and excessive alcohol. • Testing and Early Diagnosis: Understanding bone mineral density tests, parathyroid hormone disorders, and why timely medical assessment is vital (noting that only 20% of fracture patients currently receive diagnosis or treatment). • Fall and Fracture Prevention: Practical steps for older adults, caregivers, and health professionals to maintain mobility, confidence, and safe home environments.