Osteoporosis: A silent killer of the bones
Due to decreased bone density and quality, osteoporosis caused skeletal weakening and increased fracture risk, notably the spine, wrist and hip. The first indication of this condition is a fracture, a major cause of death and morbidity.
Osteoporosis has several risk factors, some adjustable and some not. Female sex, age, thin build, and family history of osteoporosis are non-modifiable risk factors. Smoking, excessive alcohol use, and caffeine intake are all changeable factors.
Osteoporosis causes a fracture in one in three women and one in five men over 50. The International Osteoporosis Foundation estimates that 30-50% of women and 15-30% of men suffer an osteoporotic fracture.
Osteoporosis affects both men and women and can be prevented or treated. Following menopause, women's bone loss accelerates and continues into the postmenopausal years. Osteoporosis occurs when bone loss occurs too quickly, or bone growth develops too slowly. Osteoporosis develops if your peak bone mass is not reached during your bone-building years.
Osteoporosis is diagnosed with standard radiography and bone mineral density (BMD) testing. Dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry is the most used approach. The causes of osteoporosis are well known. Less estrogen after menopause or surgical removal of the ovaries is associated with a rapid loss of bone mineral density, while less testosterone has the same impact in males. Tobacco use, malnutrition, inactivity, soft drinks, and excessive alcohol use are modifiable risk factors. Medications have been linked to an increased risk of osteoporosis.
Five ways to keep bones healthy
1. Eat a well-balanced diet with plenty of dairy, fish, fruits, and vegetables.
2. Exercise regularly to reduce bone loss and retain calcium in the bones.
3. Avoid smoking and limit alcohol.
4. Get vitamin D from the early morning sunlight.
5. Reduce stress which is crucial to bone health
Osteoporosis should be treated with medications and lifestyle, nutrition, and exercise guidance. Getting enough calcium and vitamin D, plus supplements if needed, may help minimise the risk of osteoporosis.
The writer works at the Department of Pharmacy, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman Science and Technology University.
E-mail: [email protected]
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