Osteoporosis Uncovered: Causes, Prevention, and Effective Management
Osteoporosis is a condition where bones become weak, brittle, and more prone to fractures due to reduced bone density and mass. Often called a "silent disease," it typically shows no symptoms until a fracture occurs, commonly in the hip, spine, or wrist. It affects over 200 million people worldwide, with 1 in 3 women and 1 in 5 men over 50 at risk of an osteoporotic fracture. Risk factors include aging, menopause (due to lower estrogen), family history, low body weight, certain medications (e.g., corticosteroids), and lifestyle factors like smoking or inadequate calcium/vitamin D intake. **Prevention and Management:** - **Diet**: Aim for 700–1200 mg of calcium daily (e.g., dairy, leafy greens) and sufficient vitamin D (sunlight, salmon, supplements). - **Exercise**: Weight-bearing activities (walking, dancing) and strength training help maintain bone density. - **Lifestyle**: Avoid smoking and limit alcohol. - **Screening**: Bone density tests (DXA scans) are ...