Globally, this “silent disease” impacts around 200 million women, making it one of the most widespread bone conditions.
However, even more concerning is that many people have no idea they’re living with it.
In fact, a study from Menopause Review found that only about 20% of women who’ve experienced osteoporotic fractures are diagnosed and treated for osteoporosis. In some areas, up to 71.5% of women in rehabilitation programs were found to be undiagnosed. (2)
For most, the first sign of osteoporosis isn’t a subtle warning—it’s a fracture.
These fractures can lead to serious complications like chronic pain, reduced mobility, and an increased risk of future fractures. Once a person has one fracture due to osteoporosis, their chances of experiencing another increase significantly, often doubling or more. (3)
Here’s the good news: you can take action before fractures happen. And, even if you’ve already experienced a fracture or been diagnosed with osteoporosis, the good news is: it’s not too late.
Genetic screening provides valuable insights into your osteoporosis risk by revealing your unique genetic profile. It helps you create personalized strategies to prevent further bone loss and strengthen your bones, empowering you to take meaningful steps toward better bone health and a more active future.
This is especially crucial if osteoporosis runs in your family, empowering you to take proactive steps to safeguard your bone health.
With these insights, you and your doctor can create a personalized plan tailored to your needs.
Whether it’s boosting bone strength through diet, exercise, or supplements or addressing risk factors early, genetic screening helps you take control of your bone health.
So, what is genetic screening, and how can it help prevent osteoporosis and support stronger bones as you age?
What is Genetic Screening For Osteoporosis?
Genetic screening for osteoporosis involves analyzing a person’s DNA to identify genetic variations associated with bone density and fracture risk.
This process helps predict the likelihood of developing osteoporosis or fractures before clinical symptoms appear, enabling early intervention and personalized prevention strategies. With genetic screening, you can…
Identify if You’re at Risk for Osteoporosis
Osteoporosis is often called the "silent disease" for a reason—it progresses quietly, without noticeable symptoms, until a fracture happens.
Many people don’t even realize they have it until a minor fall or injury leads to a broken bone, often bringing unexpected health challenges.
In fact, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 10.2 million Americans currently have osteoporosis, and another 43.4 million have low bone mass (osteopenia), a condition that increases their risk of developing osteoporosis. (4)
However, the majority of those affected are unaware of their condition.
For instance, in a study published in the Frontiers in Medicine, although 75% out of 189 participants were aware of osteoporosis as a disease, many failed to recognize their personal risk factors or the silent nature of the disease. (5)
Alarmingly, 46% didn’t know that a family history of osteoporosis increases their risk, and 60% mistakenly believed that symptoms would appear before a fracture occurred.
The truth is that osteoporosis often remains hidden until it’s too late.
Some may notice changes like height loss or posture issues caused by vertebral fractures, but these signs typically occur only after significant bone loss.
That’s why regular screening is important, especially for those at higher risk.
Genetic screening offers a proactive solution, identifying people at high risk for osteoporosis long before clinical symptoms appear.
This is important because early intervention can help prevent fractures and the complications they bring.
For example, a study from Stanford University shows that people flagged as high-risk through genetic screening can be up to 17 times more likely to develop osteoporosis than their peers. (6)
Among nearly 400,000 participants, researchers found that approximately 2% were classified as high-risk based on their genetic profile. These individuals faced a higher likelihood of experiencing osteoporosis and fractures throughout their lifetime.
By analyzing key genetic markers associated with bone density and fracture risk, genetic screening helps uncover your osteoporosis risk—even if you don’t have traditional risk factors like age or family history.
The bottom line: Osteoporosis may be silent, the tools to detect it early aren’t.
Genetic screening, such as the OsteoIQ™ Optimal Genomics, is a powerful way to take charge of your bone health, ensuring you stay ahead of this silent disease before it impacts your quality of life.
Reveal Your Genetic Risk Factors
Genetic screening for osteoporosis helps you identify specific genes linked to bone health, giving you valuable insights into your risk for the condition—long before any symptoms or fractures appear.
This type of testing looks at genetic markers that affect your bone density and how your body responds to important hormones that regulate bone health.
Some of the genes that play a role in osteoporosis risk include:
1. COL1A1 and COL1A2: These genes produce the alpha chains of type I collagen, the main structural protein in bones. Mutations are responsible for about 90% of osteogenesis imperfecta cases, leading to brittle bones. Variations in these genes can reduce collagen production, increase bone fragility, and elevate fracture risk, with specific polymorphisms linked to lower bone mineral density (BMD). (7)
2. ESR1 (Estrogen Receptor 1): This gene encodes the estrogen receptor, crucial for bone metabolism. Variations can affect estrogen’s ability to maintain bone density, with certain polymorphisms associated with higher fracture risk, especially in postmenopausal women. (8)
3. VDR (Vitamin D Receptor): The VDR gene encodes the vitamin D receptor, essential for calcium absorption. Genetic variations can impact vitamin D activation and function, influencing calcium balance and BMD. People with specific VDR polymorphisms may have a higher risk of osteoporosis, especially in populations with limited vitamin D exposure or low dietary intake. (9)
4. TNFRSF11B (OPG): This gene encodes osteoprotegerin, a protein that helps in regulating bone remodeling by inhibiting osteoclast differentiation and activity. Variations in TNFRSF11B can influence bone resorption processes, potentially leading to increased bone loss and reduced bone density. (10)
5. SOST: The SOST gene encodes sclerostin, a protein that inhibits bone formation by osteoblasts. Mutations or variations in SOST can lead to dysregulated bone remodeling. While some variations may result in increased bone formation, others can impair bone quality or balance, contributing to osteoporosis in certain cases. (11)
6. CYP2R1: This gene is involved in vitamin D metabolism, specifically converting vitamin D into its active form. Variants in CYP2R1 can affect vitamin D levels and thus influence calcium absorption and bone health. (12)
7. LRP5: The LRP5 gene is associated with Wnt-signaling pathways that regulate bone formation. Mutations in LRP5 can lead to conditions such as osteoporosis-pseudoglioma syndrome, characterized by low BMD and increased fracture risk. Some gain-of-function mutations can also result in abnormally high bone mass but may also lead to structural imbalances. (13)
8. BMP-2: Bone morphogenetic protein 2 (BMP-2) plays a critical role in bone development and repair. Variations in BMP-2 may affect the body’s ability to form new bone tissue, influencing overall skeletal health. (14)
9. WNT16: This gene is part of the Wnt-signaling pathway, which is crucial for bone development and maintenance. Genetic variations in WNT16 have been associated with variations in BMD and fracture susceptibility. (15)
10. GC (Vitamin D Binding Protein): The GC gene encodes the vitamin D binding protein, which transports vitamin D metabolites in the bloodstream. Variants can influence the availability of vitamin D to target tissue, potentially affecting calcium metabolism and bone health. (16)
11. STAT1: This gene supports signaling pathways related to immune responses and inflammation, which can indirectly affect bone health through mechanisms involving osteoclast activity and bone resorption. (17)
By knowing which gene variations you have, you and your doctor can create a personalized plan to support your bone health and lower your risks of fractures.
Create Personalized Prevention Strategies
Genetic screening takes the guesswork out of supporting your bone health.
By understanding your unique genetic risk factors, you and your doctor can develop a prevention plan tailored specifically to you—one that’s based on real data, not assumptions.
Here’s how it works:
Personalized Nutrition
Your genetic profile can reveal how your body processes essential nutrients like calcium and vitamin D. If variations in these areas are detected, you may require specific dietary changes or enhanced focus on certain foods such as salmon, herring, sardines, organic tofu, fried figs, and raw arugula to better support your bones.
Custom Exercise Plans
Not all workouts are created equal, especially when it comes to building bone strength. Genetic insights, together with the BoneCoach team, can provide guidance on which types of exercise—such as weight-bearing, resistance training, or balance exercises—may be most effective for maintaining or improving your bone health.
Lifestyle Adjustments
Factors like tobacco use or alcohol consumption can have a big impact on your bone health. Genetic screening may identify heightened sensitivities or risks associated with these habits, allowing you to make smarter lifestyle choices. (18)
Targeted Supplementation
Genetic data can also guide you on which supplements might benefit you the most. Whether it’s calcium, vitamin D, or other bone-supporting nutrients, genetic screening can help refine your supplementation strategy based on how your body metabolizes these nutrients.
This personalized approach empowers you to take proactive steps to protect your bones, with strategies designed specifically for your unique genetic makeup.
From diet to exercise and lifestyle changes, genetic screening offers a clear roadmap to help you achieve your stronger, healthier bone goals.
Track and Monitor Your Progress
Genetic screening doesn’t just provide a snapshot of your risk—it sets the foundation for ongoing, proactive bone health management.
For those identified as high-risk, regular monitoring and personalized strategies are essential for staying ahead of osteoporosis.
For example, genetic screening results can help you and your doctor keep a close eye on your bone health.
If bone density declines despite treatment, adjustments can be made to your care plan—like modifying supplements or medications, exploring a new workout routine, or optimizing your nutrient intake.
The great news? With OsteoIQ™ Active Monitoring, you can now track your progress in weeks to months—not years.
No more guessing whether your supplements, workouts, or bone health plan are effective. Instead, you’ll gain clear, actionable insights to assess progress and identify where adjustments might be needed.
Moreover, your genetic profile can reveal how your body responds to treatments for osteoporosis.
For instance, if your genes affect calcium absorption, your doctor might recommend a specific approach to calcium or vitamin D supplementation to enhance results.
By understanding your genetic risks and progress, you become an active participant in your care. Seeing how lifestyle changes and treatments improve your bone health increases your commitment to staying on track.
Moreover, with regular monitoring, small changes can be addressed before they become big issues.
Early interventions—like exercises to strengthen bones or dietary tweaks to maintain proper calcium levels—can help prevent fractures and other complications.
By combining the precision of genetic screening with regular monitoring and personalized care, you can take control of your bone health. This approach not only lowers the risk of fractures but also supports a healthier, more active future.
Save Yourself from Expensive Medical Costs
Osteoporotic fractures don’t just impact your health—they can also take a serious toll on your wallet, as treating these injuries comes with significant costs.
Take hip fractures, for example. These are the most expensive, with average first-year costs ranging between $20,000 and $40,000, including hospital stays, rehabilitation, and follow-up care. (19)
Hospital expenses alone can range from $8,000 to $32,000, depending on the severity of the injury and potential complications. (20)
Vertebral fractures, while less costly, can still incur medical expenses averaging $2,300 during the first year. (21)
Meanwhile, forearm fractures, though less severe, average approximately $920 over the same timeframe. (22)
These expenses can escalate quickly, making osteoporosis an expensive condition to overlook.
The good news?
Genetic testing allows for early intervention and prevention, reducing hospital visits and minimizing the need for costly treatments or life-altering complications.
For instance, knowing your genetic predisposition empowers you to take targeted steps, such as adjusting your diet, optimizing exercise routines, and incorporating specific supplements to support your bone health.
It also helps you sidestep the hidden costs of fractures, like lost wages, caregiving expenses, and diminished quality of life.
In other words, prevention is priceless. Genetic testing isn’t just about protecting your bones—it’s about safeguarding your finances too.
By taking preventive action now, you can reduce the financial burden and challenges that osteoporosis could bring later down the line.
Improve Mobility and Independence
The idea of losing your independence or relying on others for everyday tasks is something most of us would rather not think about.
However, for many, osteoporosis turns that concern into a reality.
It weakens bones, increases the risk of fractures, and can lead to severe complications like chronic pain, long-term disability, and a diminished quality of life.
That’s not to mention that for many older adults, the fear of falling and breaking a bone can be debilitating. This fear often discourages them from staying active, further weakening their bones and increasing fracture risk.
But here’s the silver lining: catching osteoporosis early and taking proactive steps—especially with tools like genetic screening—can make all the difference.
When you know your risk, you can take action to strengthen your bones and protect your independence.
This might involve simple lifestyle changes like incorporating weight-bearing and resistance exercises into your routine, ensuring you’re getting enough calcium and vitamin D, and developing strategies to prevent falls.
By managing your bone health effectively, you’re much more likely to stay active and mobile.
Imagine being able to enjoy the activities you love—whether that’s gardening, dancing, or even just taking a walk around the block—without worrying about the risk of injury.
Staying active doesn’t just improve your physical health—it also enhances your confidence, preserves your independence, and supports your overall well-being.
But the benefits don’t stop there.
Keeping your bones strong means you’re less likely to experience complications that might require hospital visits or long-term care. Not only does that help you feel better and more secure, but it also reduces the financial burden.
With early intervention and proactive care through genetic screenings, you can maintain your mobility, independence, and vitality as you age.
This allows you to continue living an active, fulfilling life, doing the things you love without worry.
How to Prevent Osteoporosis and Build Stronger Bones for Life
Prevention is the foundation of healthy, strong bones as you age.
Whether you have a family history of osteoporosis or you’re already taking steps to protect your bone health, it’s important to know if your efforts are truly paying off.
That’s where OsteoIQ™ comes in.
OsteoIQ™ Bone Health Intelligence Testing gives you the power to prevent, monitor, and manage bone health issues before they escalate into fractures, falls, or the need for long-term care.
If you want to uncover your personal osteoporosis risks and create a targeted bone health plan that works for you, OsteoIQ™ Optimal Genomics can help:
- Reveal your unique genetic markers associated with osteoporosis risk
- Identify personal predispositions to bone loss and fractures
- Deliver a tailored prevention plan specific to your needs
- Recommend precise strategies for diet, supplements, and exercise that align with your DNA
If you’re already working on your bone health, you need proof that your efforts are effective. The OsteoIQ™ Active Monitoring Kit provides detailed insights to help you refine your strategy.
- See tangible results in weeks or months, not years
- Monitor your bone turnover with CTX and P1NP marker tests
- Find out whether your supplements are working for your bones
- Assess whether your exercise routine is helping to support bone strength
- Make informed adjustments to maximize your progress
Together, these tools give you something your parents or grandparents never had: the power to see and change your bone health destiny.
With OsteoIQ™, you’ll gain a clear understanding of your risks and track your progress with precision, helping you build a future of stronger bones and an active lifestyle.
❌ No more waiting for signs.
❌ No more guessing if your plan is working.
❌ No more accepting what "runs in the family" as your destiny.
Imagine being the turning point in your family's health history.
The one who said, "Not me, not my children" to osteoporosis.
Don’t wait for the first fracture or accept a family history of weak bones as your fate.
If you’re concerned about osteoporosis, bone health, or simply want to take control of your future…