Osteoporosis is a condition in which the bones become weaker and more likely to fracture. It is often referred to as a 'silent disease' because it can progress without symptoms for many years.
Osteoporosis increases the risk of fractures, which can cause pain, disability, and a decrease in quality of life. It affects an estimated 10 million Americans, 80% of which are women. Osteoporosis is most common in postmenopausal women, but it can also affect children, young adults, and older men.
The main risk factors for developing osteoporosis are aging, family history of the disease, ethnicity, being female, and having a sedentary lifestyle. Other risk factors include taking certain medications (e.g., steroids), having certain chronic diseases (e.g., celiac disease), smoking and drinking, and having a low body weight.
It is important to promote healthy lifestyle habits to help prevent osteoporosis. Weight-bearing exercises like jogging, dancing, or lifting weights work to build and maintain strong bones. Eating adequate amounts of calcium and vitamin D and getting enough sun exposure are also important for bone health.
In addition, there are medications that can be taken to reduce the risk of fractures in those with osteoporosis. These include bisphosphonates, selective estrogen receptor modulators (SERMs), hormone therapy, calcitonin, and vitamin D and calcium supplements.
To accurately diagnose osteoporosis, one or more of the following tests can be used: Dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA or DEXA), Ultrasound, Quantitative Computed Tomography (QCT), and Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI).
Living with osteoporosis can be challenging, so it is important to focus on making lifestyle changes to avoid complications and fractures. Eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly, and limiting alcohol and tobacco use can help those with osteoporosis stay strong and healthy.
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