Osteoporosis affects millions across India, yet many remain unaware until a fracture occurs. A 2021 study shows prevalence ranging from 8 to 62 per cent in Indian women and 8.5 to 24.6 per cent in men over 50. Often called a silent epidemic, the condition develops without obvious symptoms. People dismiss back pain, height loss, or fatigue as normal ageing. Primary healthcare typically focuses on diabetes or blood pressure, leaving bone health overlooked. Infrastructure gaps worsen the problem; bone density scans are scarce in smaller cities and expensive where available. Indians face unique vulnerabilities including low dietary calcium, widespread vitamin D deficiency due to limited sun exposure and pollution, and high consumption of polished grains and ultra-processed foods. Women experience additional risks from early menopause and multiple pregnancies, which weaken bones. Daily life becomes challenging for those diagnosed, with mobility reduced and constant fear of fractures. The psychological burden includes anxiety, depression, and social withdrawal. Late diagnosis, often after a fracture, brings severe physical and emotional consequences. Experts recommend weight-bearing exercise, calcium-rich diets, vitamin D, and psychological support. National screening programs and awareness campaigns are urgently needed as the population ages.
Why India faces higher osteoporosis risk
Indians confront a unique combination of risk factors. Diets low in calcium and high in cereals like wheat and rice reduce calcium absorption. Vitamin D deficiency is widespread due to limited sun exposure, pollution, and cultural clothing practices. High consumption of polished grains, ultra-processed foods, low protein intake, and excessive tea, coffee, and salt all compromise bone health. Women face additional challenges, including early menopause and multiple pregnancies that reduce bone strength. Postmenopausal decline in oestrogen accelerates bone loss. Lifetime calcium deficiency, poor nutrition, and early menopause contribute significantly to the condition's prevalence among Indian women.
Living with the silent disease
For diagnosed patients, everyday life transforms. One Gurugram resident diagnosed last year after extreme foot and ankle pain now cannot stand long and must take frequent breaks. Eating very cold foods triggers bone pain. Another patient, aged 64, has mobility reduced by 20 to 30 per cent and relies on others for certain tasks while managing pain with calcium supplements twice daily. The psychological toll includes persistent anxiety about fractures, frustration when pain limits movement, and fear of weight gain from reduced activity. Women face a double burden as the condition coincides with postmenopausal changes and caregiving expectations, affecting identity and self-worth.
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