Facts About Osteoporosis and Prevention Guidelines

Krishna Misra, M.D.

Do you want to look like a little, frail, hunched grandma when you are 70? Probably not. So what can you do to prevent that from happening? The image described, along with a decrease in height is generally a result of having osteoporosis.

What is osteoporosis? The word osteoporosis means “porous bones”. It is a condition related to loss of minerals, especially calcium from the bones, making them weaker, more brittle and susceptible to fractures.

There are over 44 million women and men over age 50 who are at high risk of developing osteoporosis. Of these, at least 30 million are women. Post-menopausal women are at a three times greater risk of developing fractures secondary to osteoporosis than men. These fractures are most common in the spine and hips.

In the past, osteoporosis was considered to be an inevitable condition of aging. Recent advances in science and technology however have put that myth to rest. Osteoporosis can be diagnosed and treated, as well as prevented like any other disease.

Bone densitometry or Dexa Scan is a very simple, yet effective test for diagnosis of osteoporosis. It uses very low levels of radiation (x-ray) to measure the mineral content of the bones. In conjunction with a computer and data collected from various age groups of men and women of different ethnicity, the machine determines the mineral content of bone. The results are given in “T-Scores” for each individual. According to the World Health Organization, if the T-Score falls below -2.5, one is considered to be osteoporotic. When the T-Score is above -2.5 but below -1.0, diagnosis of osteopenia is made. In this condition, the bone minerals are low but the risk of developing a fracture is only moderate.

The National Osteoporosis Foundation recommends all post-menopausal women should be tested for osteoporosis along with all men who are at high risk for developing fractures. Taking certain medications, like steroids, for an extended period can put one in a higher risk group. People with prior fractures of hips or vertebrae, with a family history of osteoporosis, as well as smokers, are also considered at a greater risk for developing osteoporosis. Certain other situations like hormone replacement, therapy for prostate cancer, history of rheumatoid arthritis and thyroid problems can also put one at a higher risk.

A healthy lifestyle with good nutritional habits, as well as regular exercise is one of the best defenses against osteoporosis. Although there are treatments for osteoporosis, currently, no cure is available.

The National Osteoporosis Foundation recommends five steps to bone health and osteoporosis prevention:

1. Intake of daily-recommended amounts of calcium and vitamin-D.
2. Engage in regular weight-bearing exercise like aerobics, running or walking.
3. Avoid smoking and excessive alcohol.
4. Talk to your healthcare provider regarding bone health.
5. Get a bone density test when appropriate

Once diagnosed, osteoporosis can be treated with biphosphonates, such as Fosamax^®, Boniva^® or Actonel^®. Other medications are also available and one needs to consult their primary care physician to determine the best steps for your needs. If you are concerned about risk factors or how to prevent or treat osteoporosis, make an appointment to see your primary care physician.

Dr. Krishna Misra is a board-certified radiologist at Bay Valley Medical Group, which offers multi-specialty services and has offices in Hayward, Castro Valley, Danville and Pleasanton. Dr. Misra is located at Bay Valley Medical Group’s Hayward office, (510) 785-5000.