OSTEOPOROSIS

Osteoporosis is a metabolic bone disorder which results in decreased bone mass. In this condition bones become porous, brittle and abnormally vulnerable to fracture, especially bones of hip, spinal vertebrae, and wrist. .It is a silent disease that affects over 25 million people each year.80 percent of people with osteoporosis are women. Osteoporosis is responsible for one and a half million fractures each year. After menopause women lose about one to two percent of their bone density each year. According to a recent health survey, not just women, men in India have also reported high incidence of Osteoporosis. The survey claimed to have screened close to 73 lakh men out of which 80% were found to have alarmingly low levels of vitamin D in their blood. Vitamin D is extremely essential for maximizing bone health.

Causes

• Age
• Reduced sex hormones
• Bone structure: Being tall or slim increases the risk.
• Genetic factors
• Fracture history
• Diet and lifestyle choices
• Drugs and health conditions
• Prevention
• Ensure a nutritious diet and adequate calcium intake.
• Avoid under-nutrition.
• Maintain an adequate supply of vitamin D.
• Participate in regular weight-bearing activity.
• Avoid smoking, Avoid alcohol intake.

Preventions-

• Exercise – like aerobics, dancing, jogging etc.

• Take proper diet rich in calcium and vitamin D like Milk, salmon, almonds.

Test and Diagnosis

• Dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) or bone densitometry.
• Lateral vertebral assessment (LVA)
• Ultrasound scan
• T scan
• Blood calcium test