Ireland's Bone Health Resource
Understanding
Osteoporosis &
Fragility Fractures
Plain-language information about bone density, fracture risk, and what you can do — written for people in Ireland, their families, and their carers.
500,000+
people in Ireland estimated to have osteoporosis
1 in 2
women over 50 will experience an osteoporosis-related fracture
20,000+
osteoporotic fractures occur in Ireland every year
Your guide to better bone health
Whether you've just been diagnosed or want to take preventive action, start here.
Understand It
Learn what osteoporosis is, how bone density changes with age, and what puts you at higher risk — in plain English.
Test for It
Find out about DXA scans — what they involve, how to get referred in Ireland, and how to understand your T-score.
Manage It
From nutrition and exercise to treatment options and falls prevention — practical steps you can take today.
Why Bone Health Matters
Osteoporosis is a silent condition — bones weaken gradually with no symptoms until a fracture occurs. Early awareness and action make a real difference.
Bone Density Testing
DXA scans detect bone loss before fractures occur
Nutrition & Calcium
Diet is the foundation of strong bones
Exercise & Activity
Weight-bearing exercise builds and maintains bone
What is a Fragility Fracture?
A fragility fracture is a broken bone caused by a force that would not normally break a healthy bone — such as a minor fall, a bump, or even everyday activities like coughing or bending.
They are most common at the hip, spine, and wrist, and are often the first visible sign of osteoporosis. A first fracture increases the risk of a second by up to 86%.
Learn More
Most Irish Adults Are Deficient in Vitamin D
Ireland's latitude and climate means sunlight is often insufficient for adequate vitamin D synthesis. Vitamin D is essential for calcium absorption and bone health — supplementation is recommended for most Irish adults.
Vitamin D in Ireland
Explore by topic
Calcium & Nutrition
Foods that build and maintain bone density
Vitamin D in Ireland
Why supplementation is especially important here
Exercise for Bone Health
Weight-bearing activities that make a difference
Understanding T-scores
What your DXA scan results mean
Treatment Options
Medication and non-medication approaches
Falls Prevention
Home safety and balance tips
Fracture Liaison Services
How FLS helps after a fracture in Ireland
Osteoporosis in Men
The under-diagnosed group
Resources & Support
Irish organisations and helpful links
From the Blog
Latest Articles
The Silent Disease: Why So Many Irish People Don't Know They Have Osteoporosis
Osteoporosis causes no pain, no visible signs, and no warning — until a bone breaks. We look at why it remains so under-diagnosed in Ireland, and what needs to change.
What Happens After a Wrist Fracture? Why Your Bone Health Needs Attention Now
A broken wrist can feel like a minor inconvenience. But for people over 50, it may be the first warning sign of osteoporosis — and a critical moment to act.
Vitamin D in Ireland: What the Experts Say and What You Should Do
Ireland's climate means most of us are deficient in Vitamin D for half the year or more. Here's the latest guidance on supplements, sun exposure, and bone health.
About This Resource
FragilityFracture.ie is an independent educational resource for people in Ireland. All content is written in plain English and reviewed against current clinical guidelines (HSE, NICE, International Osteoporosis Foundation).
We are not affiliated with any pharmaceutical company and do not recommend specific products or brands. This site does not provide medical advice — always speak to your GP.
Concerned about your bones?
If you're worried about osteoporosis, have had a fracture, or have risk factors, your GP is your first port of call. Bone density testing (a DXA scan) is the only way to diagnose osteoporosis.
“Ask your GP about a bone density (DXA) scan.”
Medical Disclaimer: This site provides educational information only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult your GP or qualified healthcare provider.