Osteoporosis weakens the bones. Millions of people around the world are suffering from this disease. Although it mainly affects older individuals, it can also occur in younger people due to factors such as hormonal imbalance and certain medical conditions. One of the biggest challenges with osteoporosis is that it often goes unnoticed until a bone fracture occurs. This emphasizes the critical need for timely intervention and a proactive measure to tackle this silent disease before irreversible damage occurs.
Individuals can significantly reduce their chances of developing this debilitating condition. Additionally, advances in technology have led to more accurate diagnostic tools, such as bone density scans and genetic testing, which enable doctors to detect symptoms of osteoporosis at an earlier stage. However, there are many myths associated with this condition that we need to dispel.
Here, we help you separate fact from fiction
Most people do not need to worry about osteoporosis.
Millions of Indians – 36 million to be exact – have low bone density or osteoporosis. In fact, one in two women and one in four men over the age of 50 will break a bone due to osteoporosis. An estimated two million bones are broken every year due to this disease.
Osteoporosis is a problem only for older women
While osteoporosis is more common in white women, men and women of all races can get the disease. Additionally, while this disease is more common in older people, it can occur at any age.
If you break a bone from a serious fall or accident, you don't have to worry about osteoporosis.
Broken bones may be the first sign of low bone density or osteoporosis in people over the age of 50. Broken bones from serious falls or accidents are often related to osteoporosis.
People with osteoporosis may feel that their bones are weakening.
Osteoporosis is commonly called the "silent disease". Often, a broken bone is the first sign of osteoporosis. Some people discover they have osteoporosis after losing height from one or more broken bones in the spine. These bones can break without causing any noticeable pain.
Osteoporosis testing is painful and you are exposed to a lot of radiation.
Experts recommend bone mineral density testing using a centralized DXA (dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry) machine. It is simple, painless, takes 5-10 minutes and uses very little radiation. When you fly by plane between Delhi and Bombay, you are exposed to 10-15 times more radiation.
Children and teenagers do not need to worry about the health of their bones.
Children and teens can build strong bones and prevent osteoporosis by being physically active and getting enough calcium and vitamin D.
If you drink a lot of milk and exercise, you are not at risk for osteoporosis.
Even if you drink plenty of milk and exercise, you may still be at risk for osteoporosis. There are many risk factors for osteoporosis. Some you can control and some you can't.
Osteoporosis is not serious
Broken bones from osteoporosis can be very painful and serious. Broken bones can affect physical, mental and emotional health and in some cases can even lead to death. It is important to take steps to protect your bones throughout your life.
Taking extra calcium supplements may help prevent osteoporosis
There is no additional benefit from taking more calcium than required. To determine whether a supplement is right for you, estimate the amount of calcium you get from foods in a typical day.
Most people do not need to take vitamin D supplements
Vitamin D helps your body use calcium. If you don't get enough vitamin D, or if your body doesn't absorb it well, you have a higher risk of developing osteoporosis. Your skin makes vitamin D when exposed to the sun, and it's also available in some foods. However, many people require vitamin D supplements.
Disclaimer: Before implementing the method, methods and suggestions mentioned in this article, please consult a doctor or related expert.
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