What is Osteoporosis? Causes, Symptoms, and Prevention

World Osteoporosis Day (WOD) is celebrated on October 20 every year to increase public awareness to maintain bone health from an early age. Osteoporosis can occur in anyone, generally this disease usually occurs in people over 70 years of age and 2 times more often women. However, it can also occur in children.

For that, let's discuss more about osteoporosis, its causes, symptoms and prevention.

What is Osteoporosis?

Osteoporosis is a condition in which bones experience a decrease in density so that they become brittle and prone to fracture. This disease is often referred to as “porous bone disease” because the bones become more prone to cracking or breaking even when exposed to light pressure, such as falling or even from a loud cough. The bones most commonly affected by osteoporosis are the spine, hips and wrists. However, the disease can affect all bones in the body.

Osteoporosis usually develops gradually over many years without obvious symptoms, so it is often only detected after a fracture occurs. This is why osteoporosis is referred to as the “silent disease.”

Types of Osteoporosis

There are several types of osteoporosis, and each has different characteristics:

Primary Osteoporosis

This is the most common type of osteoporosis and generally occurs in older people, especially in postmenopausal women. After menopause, the production of estrogen-a hormone that helps protect bones-declines dramatically, causing a decrease in bone mass.

Secondary Osteoporosis

This type occurs as a result of certain medical conditions or the use of medications that affect bone health. For example, long-term use of corticosteroid drugs or diseases such as hyperthyroidism and kidney disease can trigger secondary osteoporosis.

Idiopathic Juvenile Osteoporosis

This is a rare condition that occurs in children, adolescents, or young adults who generally have no risk factors for osteoporosis. The cause is unknown (idiopathic), but is related to the body's inability to form strong bones during growth.

Causes of Osteoporosis

The main cause of osteoporosis is an imbalance in the process of bone formation and destruction. Naturally, bone is constantly undergoing a process of formation by cells called osteoblasts, and destruction by cells called osteoclasts. In healthy people, these processes are balanced, but in people with osteoporosis, bone destruction occurs faster than formation, resulting in weak bones.

Some specific causes of osteoporosis include:

Decreased Sexual Hormones

Hormones such as estrogen in women and testosterone in men help protect bones. A decrease in these hormones, especially after menopause or andropause, can accelerate the decline in bone mass.

Low Intake of Calcium and Vitamin D

Calcium and vitamin D are two essential nutrients for bone health. A deficiency of either can lead to decreased bone density and the risk of osteoporosis.

Certain Diseases

Some diseases such as hyperthyroidism, chronic kidney disease, and digestive disorders that interfere with nutrient absorption can also contribute to the occurrence of osteoporosis.

Use of Certain Drugs

Drugs such as corticosteroids and seizure medications can reduce bone mass if used long-term.

Risk Factors for Osteoporosis

Some risk factors that can increase a person's chances of developing osteoporosis include:

1. Gender: Women have a higher risk of osteoporosis than men, especially after menopause.
2. Age: The older a person is, the greater the risk of developing osteoporosis because bone density tends to decrease with age.
3. Family History: If any family member has osteoporosis, your risk is also higher.
4. Lifestyle: Smoking, excessive drinking, and lack of physical activity can accelerate the decline in bone density.
5. Medical Conditions: Diseases like diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, and other hormonal disorders can affect bone health.
6. Poor Nutritional Intake: Diets that are low in calcium, protein and vitamin D can increase the risk of osteoporosis.

Symptoms of Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis often shows no obvious symptoms in its early stages. However, as bone density decreases, some signs that may appear include:

• Frequent fractures: Especially in the hip, wrist, or spine after a minor injury.
• Slouching posture: A weakened spine can lead to a hunched posture due to spinal compression.
• Decreased height: Osteoporosis can cause the spine to shrivel, which in turn reduces height.
• Back pain: Spinal fractures due to osteoporosis can cause severe back pain.

If you experience any of these signs, it is very important to see a doctor and undergo a bone density test.

Prevention of Osteoporosis

Prevention of osteoporosis can be started early by maintaining bone health through a healthy lifestyle. Consumption of calcium-rich foods, diligent exercise, and ensuring adequate intake of vitamin D are key. In addition, avoid bad habits such as smoking and drinking excessive alcohol to maintain long-term bone health.

By knowing what osteoporosis is, its causes, and preventive measures, you can take early action to maintain bone health throughout life. (Aq/PRT)