Understanding Osteoporosis

What is Osteoporosis

• Osteoporosis is a condition that affects bone strength, resulting in "porous bones"
• Bone is composed of collagen fibers and minerals, and is a living tissue that contains cells that make and resorb bone
• As people age, bone formation slows down, and bone resorption increases, leading to a loss of bone material and density

Who is at Risk of Osteoporosis

• All men and women are at risk of osteoporosis, especially over the age of 60
• Women are more at risk than men, particularly those who:
  • Have had menopause before the age of 45
  • Have already had a bone fracture after a minor fall or bump
  • Have a strong family history of osteoporosis
  • Have a body mass index (BMI) of 19 or less
  • Have a low estrogen level for long periods of time
  • Take steroid medicine for three months or more
• Other risk factors include:
  • Smoking
  • High alcohol intake
  • Lack of calcium and/or vitamin D
  • Poor mobility
  • Certain medical conditions, such as overactive thyroid, coeliac disease, and type 1 diabetes

Osteoporosis Symptoms

• Osteoporosis develops slowly over several years, often without symptoms
• After a certain amount of bone loss, symptoms may occur, including:
  • Bone fracture after a minor injury, such as a fall
  • Loss of height, persistent back pain, and a bent forward (stooping) posture
  • Fragility fractures, which can occur in the hip, wrist, and spine
• Having weaker bones does not in itself give symptoms, unless there is a fracture

How is Osteoporosis Diagnosed

• Osteoporosis is often diagnosed after a fracture occurs
• DEXA scan (dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry) is used to measure bone density and confirm osteoporosis
• Other tests, such as digital X-ray radiogrammetry (DXR) and ultrasound scans, may also be used

Prevention of Osteoporosis

• Exercise can help prevent osteoporosis
• Eating foods rich in calcium (such as milk, yogurt, and dried figs) and vitamin D (such as salmon and tuna) can help prevent osteoporosis
• Avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol intake can also help
• Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) may also be used to prevent osteoporosis in some cases

Medication for Osteoporosis

• Bisphosphonates are the most commonly used medicines to treat osteoporosis
• They work by restoring lost bone and preventing further bone loss
• Other medicines, such as hormone replacement therapy (HRT), may also be used
• Lifestyle measures, such as physical examination, reviewing medication, and reviewing home circumstances, are also important for preventing falls and managing osteoporosis.