The silent threat affecting millions of Indian women that no one talks about

The silent threat affecting millions of Indian women that no one talks about

Dr. Amit Sharma

Osteoporosis and low bone density are alarmingly common in India, especially among post-menopausal women and older adults. Often called a silent disease, it progresses without symptoms until a fracture occurs—turning everyday movements into life-altering events.

In India, studies show osteoporosis prevalence in post-menopausal women ranges from 30-37.5%, and osteopenia , low bone density, is affecting another 44-45%. As a result, fragility fractures strike 10-12 years earlier here than in Western countries.

The most common and devastating fractures in women are

Over 250,000 hip fractures occur annually in India. These often lead to surgery, prolonged hospitalization, loss of independence, and high mortality risk in the first year. More than 4.5 million women above 60 in India have already suffered Spine (vertebral) fractures. They cause chronic back pain, height loss, kyphosis (hunched posture), and reduced mobility.

Wrist fractures are common from minor falls, these signal underlying bone weakness and increase the risk of future, more serious breaks.

I believe that a fracture isn't just a broken bone, it's a fracture in quality of life, family responsibilities, and financial stability, especially for women who often manage households and caregiving roles.

What most people don’t know is that osteoporosis is largely preventable and manageable, especially when we take notice of it at an early stage.

What you can do:

• Get screened — Especially if you're post-menopausal, have a family history, low BMI, early menopause, or Vitamin D deficiency.
• Build bone strength — Weight-bearing exercises  such as walking, resistance training; balance work and personal time; take adequate calcium and vitamin D; take protein-rich diet  and adequate sunlight exposure.

• Lifestyle matters — Avoid smoking, limit alcohol, and address fall risks at home.

If you're a woman over 45 or know someone who is, share this post and encourage them to talk to their doctor about bone health today.

About Dr. Amit :

Orthopaedic Surgeon Principal Director & Head, Speciality Unit of Joint Replacement, Arthroscopy & Sports Injuries.

Yashoda Medicity & Yashoda Kaushambi Director, COSMIC Clinic, Indirapuram & City Clinic, Krishnanagar

Ph: +91- 8178665625