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According to statistics, 65 million people in the country suffer from osteoporosis and 80% of them are women. In simple terms, osteoporosis means the bones become porous. This occurs when the creation of new bone doesn't keep up with the loss of old bone.
This affects the normal bone mass, making the bones hollow and weak, leading to easy fractures. Osteoporosis-related breaks most commonly occur in the hip, wrist or spine. Women are at a higher risk for οѕtеοроrοѕiѕ after mеոοраսse.
Apart from other risk factors such as poor diet and lifestyle, certain diseases also increase the risk of osteoporosis. In a conversation with Jagran English, Dr Parjeet Kaur, Associate Director, Endocrinology and Diabetes, Medanta Gurugram explained how several diseases such as diabetes, arthritis and thyroid disorders can increase the risk of osteoporosis. Diabetes: Reduced Formation Of Bone Research suggests that diabetes increases osteoclast (bone-eating cell) function but decreases osteoblast (bone-forming cell) function, thereby leading to accelerated bone loss.
Both Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes increases the risk of fracture. Thyroid disorders: Accelerated Bone Loss Hypothyroidism (low thyroid hormones) is not a risk factor for osteoporosis, but taking too much thyroid medication can lead to bone loss. In contrast, hyperthyroidism (excess thyroid hormones) if untreated is associated with decreased bone mass and increased risk of fracture.
As bone mass naturally decreases with age, elderly people are more at risk. Rheumatoid Arthritis, Lupus: Reduced Bone Mineralisation Both rheumatoid arthritis and lupus are autoimmune diseases where the immune system attacks healthy tissues, causing inflammation. The inflammatory process decreases the mineral content of the bone leading to low bone mass.
Additionally, due to fatigue and pain, affected individuals tend to avoid physical exertion which along with long-term use of corticosteroids further reduces bone formation. Asthma: Medications Increase Bone Loss Asthma does not directly affect the bones but the medications used to control it such as inhalers and tablets containing corticosteroids can lead to increased bone loss. Moreover, the doctor also mentioned the techniques that are highly effective for strengthening bones: Physiotherapy Tailored exercises by a physiotherapist improve balance, strength, and flexibility, reducing the risk of falls and fractures.
Regular sessions can help maintain bone density in areas prone to osteoporosis. Calcium Intake Consuming foods rich in calcium, such as dairy products, green leafy vegetables, and fortified foods, is crucial for maintaining bone strength and slowing bone loss. Enough Vitamin D Vitamin D helps the body absorb calcium effectively.
Include vitamin D-rich foods like fish, eggs, and fortified cereals, or consider supplements, especially if you have limited sun exposure. Exercise Regularly Weight-bearing exercises like walking, jogging, or resistance training strengthen bones and increase bone mass, which is especially important in preventing osteoporosis. Maintain A Healthy Weight Being underweight increases the risk of bone loss and fractures, while excess weight can strain bones.
Maintaining a balanced weight ensures optimal bone health. Quit Smoking Smoking reduces calcium absorption and decreases bone density, leading to weaker bones. Quitting smoking can improve bone health and slow down bone degeneration.
Limit Alcohol Consumption Excessive alcohol interferes with calcium balance, weakens bones, and increases the risk of fractures. Reducing alcohol intake can help preserve bone strength. ALSO READ: World Osteoporosis Day 2024: Role Of Bone Density Testing In Early Osteoporosis Diagnosis And Prevention ALSO READ: World Osteoporosis Day 2024: Expert Sheds Light On Role Of Hormones In Obesity And Metabolic Health.
