“Osteoporosis can result in disability, loss of independence, even death,” says Liselle Douyon, M.D., an endocrinologist at the University of Michigan Health System. The disease is considered a major public health threat for an estimated 44 million Americans, and roughly 10 million already have the disease. While osteoporosis is quite common, Douyon says it is still a condition that is widely misunderstood.

To help people understand who is at risk for the disease, as well as ways to prevent and treat it, Douyon clears up some common myths about osteoporosis.

MYTH: Only women get osteoporosisFACT: “Although there are many more women who may develop this condition, there’s also a very significant portion of men who have this disease,” Douyon says. In fact, roughly 2 million men suffer from osteoporosis, accounting for 20 percent of those diagnosed with the disease.

MYTH: Osteoporosis is a normal part of agingFACT: “It is a fact that you lose bone density with aging,” agrees Douyon. “But you should continue to have good bone strength, and you should not develop osteoporosis.”

MYTH: Osteoporosis is only a concern for the elderlyFACT: It is never too early to begin thinking about strong bones. “Good bone health is something that starts early in life,” says Douyon. Your bones begin building density from infancy through young adulthood. Most people have reached maximum bone density by age 35. “If maximum bone density is not achieved during that time, you will be at risk for developing osteoporosis,” Douyon cautions.

MYTH: Osteoporosis is strictly hereditaryFACT: While women with a family history of osteoporosis are at an increased risk of developing the disease, “not having a family history does not mean that you are immune to having this condition,” says Douyon. Everyone is susceptible.
However, there are several factors that can make an individual more likely to develop osteoporosis. “Certain kidney diseases, vitamin D deficiency, some hormonal diseases such as some thyroid disorders, Cushing’s syndrome, individuals who are treated with steroids for certain medical conditions, and certain types of cancer can contribute to osteoporosis,” she says.