It is the health condition dubbed the silent thief that affects about 1 million Australians with researchers revealing many Australian women are ignoring a ticking time bomb inside them.
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Health experts have warned more women have become increasingly concerned about weight gain or external signs of ageing such as fine lines and wrinkles rather than taking simple steps to reduce the chance of losing bone density.
The call for a renewed focus on bone health comes during Healthy Bones Action Week which starts on Monday.
Helen Krig, chief executive of Arthritis ACT, which includes Osteoporosis ACT, said osteoporosis was often called "the silent thief" because bone loss occurred without symptoms.
She said bone health could be improved by consuming calcium-rich dairy foods, doing regular weight-bearing exercises and getting safe sun for Vitamin D.
Mrs Krig said osteoporosis was an irreversible condition and often had no symptoms, underpinning the importance of prevention messages especially for younger Australians.
"Usually people don't find out that they have osteoporosis or osteopenia (thin bones) until the first fracture," she said.
"Prevention is huge – this one of those diseases that can be prevented with three simple measures but unfortunately we're seeing a huge increase in how many Australians are diagnosed with osteoporosis."
She said exercise and calcium intake were critical components during growth to build stronger bones, with physical activity most effective before and during puberty.
"Nearly 40 per cent of peak bone mass is acquired during puberty so adequate calcium intake is really essential for teenagers to prevent osteoporosis," she said.
Mrs Krig said recent research revealed 71 per cent of women did not consider bone health to be a high priority, with only 18 per cent taking regular steps to build strong, healthy bones.
Two in three Australians aged over 50, including a growing number of men, are affected by poor bone health.
Bone density can be checked with a scan. During August, Canberrans can have bone density scans done through bulk-billing or at highly reduced rates, Mrs Krig said.
Mrs Krig said people most at risk of osteoporosis were women, especially those who were petite. She said a person's background could also be factor, such as whether they grew up in a sunny climate or doing regular exercise.
For more information or find out about bone density scans in the ACT, contact Arthritis ACT on 6288 4244.
