World Osteoporosis Day : What is Osteoporosis and What Causes It?

By Dr. Kiran Seth in Rheumatology

Oct 20, 2017

20th October is observed as World Osteoporosis Day all across the globe. The day is dedicated to spread the global awareness of the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of metabolic bone disease and osteoporosis.  Every year the day is followed by specific theme and this year the theme is ‘LOVE YOUR BONES: Protect your future’.

What is Osteoporosis?

Osteoporosis is a medical condition in which the bones of the body become very weak or fragile. It increases the risk for fractured bones. The bones become so fragile that even as a result of minor fall or sneeze or a sudden body movement, bones break easily. The fractures caused by osteoporosis are life threatening and can also lead to life long disability with immense pain. 
It has been observed worldwide, one in three women and one in five men aged 50 years or above suffers from osteoporotic fracture.

With the data published by the recent survey, it shows that in India, nearly 25 million Indians have osteoporosis. 

Osteoporosis is divided into 2 categories:

Primary Osteoporosis:

 It is also known as postmenopausal osteoporosis. Generally occurs after the age of 75 years and is seen in both females and males at the ratio of 2:1.

Secondary Osteoporosis: It can happen at any age and effects male and female both equally. This is the result from chronic predisposing medical problems or diseases.

What are the signs and symptoms of Osteoporosis?

There are particularly no sign and symptoms of osteoporosis in the early stages of the bone loss. Once the bones weakens, these are the certain signs and symptoms that a person may came across:

• Pain in the back, generally caused by a fractured or collapsed vertebra
• Loss of height in short span of time
• A stooped body posture
• A fracture in bone that occurs more easily than expected

What are the preventive measures for Osteoporosis?

Regular Exercising: The best exercise for the prevention of osteoporosis are – weight bearing, muscle-strengthening and balance-training exercises.

Diet Rich in Bone-Healthy Nutrients: Calcium, vitamin-D and protein are the most important and essential for bone health.  Safe exposure to sunlight provides the sufficient vitamin-D.

Negative Lifestyle Habits Shouls be Avoided: Opt for a healthy life style by maintaining body weight and avoiding consumption of alcohol and smoking.

Always Check for the Risk Factors: always check for the risk factors and bring them out in the notice of your doctors.

Get Tested & Treated if Needed: If you’re at high risk you will likely need medication to ensure optimal protection against fracture.

“If you are above 50 years of age and have risk factors then doctors assessment is mandatory to maintain healthy bone status. Bringing out change in the lifestyle will help people to fight against this disease of Osteoporosis”, says Dr. Kiran Seth, Consultant Physician Rheumatologist, Metro Hospitals & Heart Institute.

For more information and appointments, call: +91 99104 92867 or metro@metrohospitals.com