This silent disease is recognized as the fifth most important problem in the global scenario of public health by the World Health Organization. This condition is a growing worldwide problem that is causing a tremendous social and economic burden on communities.

What is osteoporosis?
Simply stated osteoporosis is a thinning and weakening of the bones that happens to all of us as we get older. The bones become extremely fragile, and some bones will be likely to break or fracture with very little trauma. Osteoporosis is defined as a disease characterized by low bone mass and structural deterioration of bone tissue, leading to bone fragility and an increased susceptibility to fractures of the hip, spine and wrist.

Are there different types of osteoporosis?
There are two types of osteoporosis, type1 and type 11. Type I occurs only in women and is related to hormonal changes taking place after the onset of menopause, typically affecting ages 50-70. Type 11 affects nearly half of all people over the age 75.

Who is at risk of developing osteoporosis?
All of us are at risk of developing osteoporosis, as we grow older. Certain factors may accelerate this process. These include the following:
Menopause - women are at a greater risk of osteoporosis compared to men. This does not mean that all woman will get osteoporosis. After menopause the oestrogen levels fall dramatically and this is associated with an increased risk of osteoporosis.
Smoking/alcohol -Smoking and a regular high alcohol intake interfere with the body’s ability to maintain normal healthy bones.
Lack of exercise - The strength of our bones is determined partly by the physical demands placed on the skeleton. People who are confined to bed or wheelchair, or who lead a particularly inactive lifestyle, have a higher risk of developing osteoporosis.
Diet - An inadequate intake of calcium in the diet deprives the body of the raw material it needs to maintain bone mass and strength. Dairy products and fresh vegetables are good sources of calcium.
Family history -Osteoporosis is a genetic condition. Those with a family history of osteoporosis are at a substantially higher risk, e.g. if your mother has a hip fracture secondary to osteoporosis, your risk of hip fracture is elevated by 100 per cent.
Medical History - Over active thyroid gland, liver disease and anorexia nervosa can all cause osteoporosis. Certain medications like steroids when used over a very long time can cause osteoporosis.
Previous fracture - A previous fracture, particularly of the hip, wrist or spine that has resulted from minor trauma, may be an indication that your bones are already weak.
Low body weight - Women that are unusually slender may be at increased risk of osteoporosis.
If you suspect that you are at risk of developing osteoporosis you should discuss your concern with your doctor.

What can you do to prevent osteoporosis?
We cannot slow the passing of time or change the effects that aging has on our bodies. There are steps that you can do to reduce your risk of developing osteoporosis. These include:
Changing your lifestyle - such as giving up smoking and decreasing your alcohol intake.
Exercise - Regular exercise is very beneficial. The exercise need not be very vigourous. Walking for 10 to 20 minutes every day can help strengthen your bones.
Dietary calcium - It is important that children get adequate amounts of calcium during their growing years. Calcium is important to ensure strong bones. After 20-30 years our bones stop growing, but evidence suggests that maintaining adequate calcium intake is important whatever your age.

How can you know if you have osteoporosis?
There are very little warning signs of this disease. Osteoporosis is one of these insidious diseases that progress without symptoms or pain until a fracture occurs.
The only way to check for osteoporosis is through a bone density test. Women who have clinical risk factors for osteoporosis, as well as women over the age of 65, should have this test.
What if you already have osteoporosis?
You should discus with your doctor what medical treatments are available. It may be possible to prevent further weakening of your bones. All measures that you can take to prevent osteoporosis will also help to slow the progression of the disease.

Conclusion
The number of people affected by osteoporosis is increasing worldwide. This condition reduces bone mass and changes bone structure, therefore increasing the risk of fractures. Primary prevention of this condition must start in childhood. Parents must ensure their children are having a well-balanced diet rich in calcium and Vitamin D. Adults must also have a well-balanced diet, but must also include weight-bearing exercise in their daily routine, and avoid smoking and heavy alcohol consumption. Although there is no cure for osteoporosis there are many treatments available today for this condition.

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