Confuting the Myths on Osteoporosis

What is osteoporosis?

Osteoporosis is a disease which reduces the mass and density of the bone. This further leads to weakening of the bone, making them prone to low trauma fractures.Osteoporosis is accompanied by decreased functional impairment, pain and respiratory obstructions. Eventually it leads to decreased quality of life in older age. 

Bones in osteoporosis

It is important for all to remain acquainted with the true facts in order to maintain a good bone health and stay away from the potential risks of osteoporosis.

Here are some common myths or assumptions that prevent people from availing the right prevention and treatment strategies.

Men are safe from osteoporosis

Although the incidence is marginally more among females due to menopause, the assumption that osteoporosis is a feminist issue is not true. A Canadian study shows that 1 out of 8 men suffer from osteoporosis.Fractures due to osteoporosis are equally common in older men specially those above 50 years of age. The likelihood of developing osteoporosis among male is greater as compared to prostate cancer. 

Osteoporosis occurs only in old age

Osteoporosis can occur at any age. The serious complication of osteoporosis can be seen at old age when the natural healing process of the body slows down.While age is one of the established risk factor, the presence of any of the other risk factors, can induce osteoporosis irrespective of the age. 

Only medicines can help curing Osteoporosis

Although non-pharmacological treatment are most effective for managing the condition, one can also benefit from regular exercise sessions including muscle strengthening exercises, cardiovascular or aerobic exercises. Exercise is seen to improve the bone mineral density and produce a synergistic effect with the drug combination.

Calcium supplements are sufficient to prevent osteoporosis

While calcium is vital, other essential components like vitamin D, K, B_6, B_11, along with minerals are equally important for maintaining the bone health. Vitamin D is one of the key components as it helps the body to absorb calcium.

Osteoporosis is natural as we age

The prevalence of osteoporosis increases dramatically with age but in osteoporosis, bone loss is significantly higher as compared to normal aging process.The older people are at a greater risk for vitamin D insufficiency which may exaggerate their condition hence, it is very important to manage calcium and vitamin D deficiency in older people.  

Osteoporosis has a familial association

Genetics or family history definitely makes one more susceptible to osteoporosis, but there are many other factors for instance improper nutrition, hyperthyroidism, low levels of vitamin D, excessive smoking, alcohol consumption,sedentary lifestyle that can attribute to this condition.

There are indications or manifestations of the disease

Surprisingly, osteoporosis remains symptom less until the bones are extremely fragile to withstand minor fractures. People may not experience any sign throughout their 20s, 30s, and 40s when the disease may remain in a progressive stage. Hence, in order to detect osteoporosis at earlier stage, one should go for routine bone density tests.

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