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Contents
  • Understanding Osteoporosis
  • Who Is at Risk?
  • Diagnosis of Osteoporosis

Could You Be At Risk for Osteoporosis?

Could You Be At Risk for Osteoporosis?

The Big Picture

Osteoporosis is a condition that weakens bones, making them fragile and more likely to break. Understanding its signs and risks can help in early detection and prevention.
Contents
  • Understanding Osteoporosis
  • Who Is at Risk?
  • Diagnosis of Osteoporosis

Understanding Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis is a bone disease that occurs when the body loses too much bone, makes too little bone, or both. As a result, bones become weak and may break from a fall or, in serious cases, from sneezing or minor bumps. It is often called a 'silent disease' because bone loss occurs without symptoms until a fracture happens.

Who Is at Risk?

Postmenopausal women are at the highest risk for osteoporosis due to estrogen deficiency, which accelerates bone loss. Age is another significant factor, as bones naturally become thinner with age. Other risk factors include family history, low body weight, and lifestyle habits such as smoking and excessive alcohol consumption.
Osteoporosis is a bone disease characterized by decreased bone density and increased risk of fractures. It is often asymptomatic until a fracture occurs.

Diagnosis of Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis can be diagnosed through a bone mineral density (BMD) test, usually done using a dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry (DXA) scan. A T-score of -2.5 or lower confirms osteoporosis, indicating that bone density is significantly lower than average. A history of fractures from minor injuries may also lead to a diagnosis.

FAQs

What is osteoporosis?

Osteoporosis is a condition causing bones to become weak and brittle.

Who is most at risk?

Postmenopausal women and older adults are most at risk.

How is osteoporosis diagnosed?

It is diagnosed through a BMD test like a DXA scan.

What are some risk factors?

Risk factors include age, gender, family history, and lifestyle.

Can osteoporosis be prevented?

Yes, through diet, exercise, and lifestyle changes.

Wrapping Up

Understanding osteoporosis and its risk factors can lead to early detection and better management.
Speak with Doctronic to see if you're at risk and discuss prevention strategies.
Additional References
  1. World Health Organization. Assessment of fracture risk and its application to screening for postmenopausal osteoporosis. Geneva 1994.
  2. Svedbom A, Hernlund E, Ivergård M, et al. Osteoporosis in the European Union: a compendium of country-specific reports. Arch Osteoporos 2013; 8:137.
This article has been reviewed for accuracy by one of the licensed medical doctors working for Doctronic.