CHAPTER 3
OSTEOPOROSIS
What is it ?
The hallmark of this disease is brittle bones . The weak bones are due to a decreased absorption of calcium into the body and a depletion of calcium and bone protein . It is a common type of metabolic bone disease in which bones become less dense and weaker as a part of ageing . The bones are subject to fractures and heal slowly , occurring especially in women following menopause . If it is left untreated , the skeletal bones will become fragile and some of them will be likely to break or fracture , especially the hip and spinal bones ( vertebrae ).
Osteoporosis is most common in women over the age of 50 years . Following menopause , women experience rapid bone loss due to the decrease in oestrogen production . Any part of the skeleton can be affected , but of special concern are fractures of the hip and spine . Spinal , or vertebral , fractures can lead to a loss of height , severe back pain , nerve compression and deformity .
The following risk factors are associated with osteoporosis : smoking , chronic diseases , alcohol consumption , high caffeine consumption , early hysterectomy with associated removal of ovaries , hyperthyroidism and chronic steroid medication usage . Vitamin D plays a crucial role in calcium absorption . Building strong bones by eating calcium-rich foods , maintaining a wellbalanced diet and exercising during early life can be the best defence against osteoporosis .
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