How Osteoporosis threatens 28 million Americans?

Osteoporosis is a disease of the bone.  It threatens more than 28 million Americans.  The characteristics of osteoporosis include a reduction of its bone density and there is also a change in bone structure both of which increase the susceptibility to fracture.  The normal bone turnover is altered: there is a sudden change in rate absorption so it results to reduced total bone mass.

The suboptimal bone mass develop during childhood and teenage year contributes to the development of osteoporosis. With osteoporosis, the bones become progressively fragile and brittle. They fracture easily under stresses that would not break normal bone.

The probability that a 50 years old Caucasian woman will experience hip fracture during her life time is 14 percent while for a Caucasian man it is 5 to 6 percent.  The risk for African American is lower only 6 percent for women while 3 percent for men. With the development of “dowager’s hump” there is associated loss of height.  These changes may produce pulmonary insufficiency. Many people complaints of fatigue.

The prevalence of osteoporosis in women age 80 years old is 84 percent.  The average 75 year old woman has 65 percent bone loss.  With the aging population, the incidence of fracture is about 1.5 million fractures per year while pain and disability associated with osteoporosis is also rising. The mortality rate one year after fracture is about 20 percent. Two-thirds of people with hip fracture never regain their pre-fracture state.

Small framed, non-obese Caucasian women are at greatest risk for osteoporosis. Also, Asian women of slight build are at risk. However, African American, who have greater bone mass than Caucasian is less susceptible to osteoporosis.

Nutritional factors also contribute to osteoporosis, like a diet that is low in calcium and vitamin D. other risk factors includes the use of alcohol and caffeine, cigarette smoking and lack of exposure to sunshine.

Bone formation is enhanced by stress of weight and activity of the muscle. The resistance and impact of exercise are beneficial in the development and maintenance of bone mass. Immobility also contributes to the development of osteoporosis.

Hormone is also included in the risk factors especially for women. Women reach the age of 40, which is the menopausal state experience sudden cessation of hormone which contributes to the development of osteoporosis.

To prevent osteoporosis early identification is needed. Increase calcium intake during the optimal peak bone mass formation is necessary. Participate in any exercising program to prevent loss of bone mass, and modify the lifestyle by reducing intake of caffeine and stop vices like smoking.