What is Osteoporosis

OSTEOPOROSIS

Osteoporosis: Disorder of Bone

Osteoporosis is a condition that occurs due to the gradual loss of bone mineral density, leading to bones becoming pores, fragile, and increased susceptibility to fractures. Osteoporosis often called a “silent disease” is a disease characterized by low bone mass and structural deterioration of bone tissue.  Supplements like Osteocare can help support bone health and reduce the risk associated with this condition.

Diagnosis: A bone mineral density scan is the only method for diagnosis of osteoporosis. The National

Osteoporosis Foundation recommends the following individuals for BMD scan:

• All women above 65 regardless of risk factors
• All younger postmenopausal women with one or more risk factors
• Post-menopausal women who present with fractures

T-Score:

The T-score is the number of standard deviations by which a person’s BMD differs from that of healthy young adults. In general, the lower the T-score, the more fragile the person’s bones. The T-score is therefore a rough indication of the need for treatment in adults.

The World Health Organization has defined the following categories:

• Normal Bone: T-score better than -1
• Osteopenia: T-score between -1 & -2.5
• Osteoporosis: T-score less than -2.5

Osteoporosis: A Global Health Burden

• According to the World Health Organization (WHO), Osteoporosis is second only to cardiovascular disease as a global healthcare problem.
• Affects over 200 million people worldwide.
• Over 50% of women & 30-45% of men over age 50 have osteopenia/osteoporosis.
• A 10% loss of bone mass in the vertebrae can double the risk of vertebral fractures, and similarly, a 10% loss of bone mass in the hip can result in a 2.5 times greater risk of hip fracture.
• 1 out of 8 males and 1 out of 3 females in India suffers from osteoporosis, making India one of the
• Largest affected countries in the world.
• In most Western countries, while the peak incidence of Osteoporosis occurs at about 70-80 years of age, in India it may afflict younger, at age 50-60.

Osteoporosis Signs & Symptoms:

In its early stages, there are no symptoms associated with osteoporosis but as it progresses it can cause

• Fractures of the vertebrae, wrist, or hips
• Low back pain
• Neck pain
• Bone pain or tenderness
• Loss of height over time
• Stooped posture 

Osteoporosis Risk Factors:

Non-Modifiable Risk Factors Modifiable Risk factors

• Age Alcohol
• Family history of Smoking
• Menopause/ Hysterectomy Poor nutrition
• Long-term glucocorticoid therapy Insufficient exercise

Final Thought

Osteoporosis is a serious health condition that often goes unnoticed until it leads to painful fractures and reduced quality of life. Early diagnosis, lifestyle changes, and proper supplementation can make a significant difference in managing bone health. Adding trusted supplements like the Osteocare tablet from Vitabiotics can help support calcium, vitamin D, and essential minerals to strengthen bones and reduce the risk of osteoporosis-related complications.