Osteoporosis
Osteoporosis is a disease that causes fragile and brittle bones, leading to an increased risk of bone fractures occurring. The most common bones to fracture in people with osteoporosis are the spine, hip, rib, leg, arm and wrist, although other bone fractures also occur. An inadequate build up of bone density during our growing periods, and too much bone being lost and not enough being rebuilt in our later years cause osteoporosis.
The video below provides a good description of how osteoporosis is formed in the body.
Osteoporosis is most commonly occurs in women after experiencing menopause, but it also occurs in men. Indeed, the Garvan Institute states that 2 in 3 women and 1 in 3 men over the age of 60 will experience a fracture caused by osteoporosis during their lifetime in Australia. They also state that the disease currently afflicts over 2 million Australians, and it is estimated to cost us $1 billion in direct costs and $7 billion dollars in total costs every year.
Prevention and treatment of osteoporosis usually centres on three key areas:
- nutrition – an adequate supply of calcium and vitamin D is essential during our younger years to build up our bone density, and it is just as essential in our later years in order to maintain and repair our bones
- exercise – regular exercise as we age helps to maintain and strengthen our bones and surrounding muscles, although those already diagnosed with osteoporosis need to have an exercise plan that has been designed in consultation with a medical practitioner to avoid any further damage occurring
- lifestyle – studies have shown that smoking increases the chances of being afflicted with osteoporosis, while excessive intake of alcohol can reduce your bodies ability to produce vitamin D and hormones (estrogen and testosterone) essential for the production and maintenance of strong bones
Has osteoporosis affected you or someone you know? Do you need help, or are you able to provide advice? If so, please join the SeniorSpace community discussing osteoporosis on our forum here.
Useful Links
Health Insite, an Australian Government website, has an index of resources relating to osteoporosis here.
Osteoporis Australia is a national charity dedicated to reducing the incidence of osteoporosis and related fractures in Australia.
The Jean Hailes Foundation, a non-profit organization dedicated to women's health, has a useful range of resources related to osteoporosis here.
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