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Osteoporosis
Osteoporosis is a condition that occurs as a result of the bones loosing calcium
at a faster rate than the body can replace it. This decreases the
density and quality of the bones, and as a result, makes the bones more
fragile and susceptible to breakages. This decrease in bone density is known as osteopenia, and is usually a precursor of Osteoporosis. Approximately 99% of the body’s calcium levels reside in the bones. When calcium is needed for other purposes by the body, it is released by the bones into the blood stream.
Figures
suggest that as many as 2 in 3 women over the age of 60, and 1 in 3
men, will sustain a fracture as a result of Osteoporosis
Risk factors of developing this condition include:
- Family history
- Post menopause, and going through early menopause
- Eating disorders
- Substance abuse
- Inadequate intake of calcium
- Sedentary lifestyle
Osteoporosis is often known as the ‘silent disease’, as very often, there are no symptoms. The first realisation that a person has Osteoporosis can be a fracture.
Osteoporosis is divided into 2 categories; primary, of which there are 2 types, and secondary.
Primary Osteoporosis
- Type 1: Post-menopause - this occurs in women following menopause, as a result of the decrease in the production of oestrogen. This results in the depletion of calcium from the bones, leading to a decrease in bone density. Although it is not as common, men can also be affected, as a result of a decrease in testosterone as they get older. The most common fractures are of the spine, wrist and hip.
- Type 2: Age-related Osteoporosis – occurs as we get older, effecting both men and women.
It occurs when the process of reabsorption and formation of bone are
not working together effectively, as such the bone building ability,
cannot keep up with the rate of bone breakdown.
Secondary Osteoporosis
This
occurs as a results of certain health conditions compromising the
body’s ability to function optimally, ie. Endocrine imbalances, certain
diseases, long term use of certain medication, ie. corticosteroids, or
alcohol abuse, just to mention a few.
The earlier the detection of this condition, the better the outcome. Therefore it is important to educate yourself on the risks. One of the best things that a individual can do is to understand the importance of calcium. |
