Word On Osteoporosis

Our grateful thanks to the Royal Osteoporosis Society for their contribution to our radio report which you can hear again via the audio player below. To reach their website to see if you are at risk or require further information/support visit  https://theros.org.uk To contact their helpline (open Monday to Friday between 9am-12.30pm and 1.30pm-5.00pm) call 0808 800 0035 or email nurses@theros.org.uk

What is Osteoporosis?  It is a condition where bones become weak, brittle, and more prone to fractures. This occurs when the body loses too much bone mass, doesn't produce enough new bone, or both. The condition primarily affects the density and structure of bones, making them porous and more susceptible to breaks, even from minor incidents like a fall or a sneeze.

Prevalence in the UK.  Osteoporosis is common in the UK, especially among older adults. According to the Royal Osteoporosis Society, an estimated 3.5 million people in the UK are affected by osteoporosis. Additionally, every year, osteoporosis leads to around 500,000 fractures across the country, particularly in the hip, wrist, and spine.

Who is at Risk of Developing Osteoporosis?  Osteoporosis can affect anyone, but certain groups are at higher risk, including:

• Age: People over 50, particularly women post-menopause, are more susceptible. Hormonal changes during menopause significantly decrease bone density.
• Gender: Women are more likely to develop osteoporosis than men due to smaller, thinner bones and the rapid bone loss that can happen post-menopause.
• Family History: A family history of osteoporosis or fractures can increase the risk.
• Body Type: People with a smaller, thinner frame are at greater risk, as they have less bone mass to lose.
• Lifestyle Factors: Smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, a sedentary lifestyle, and a diet low in calcium and vitamin D can contribute to bone loss.
• Medical Conditions: Certain conditions, such as rheumatoid arthritis, thyroid problems, and malabsorption disorders, can increase the risk.
• Medications: Long-term use of corticosteroids and some cancer treatments can weaken bones.

Symptoms of Osteoporosis. Osteoporosis is often called a "silent disease" because it usually has no symptoms until a fracture occurs. However, some signs and symptoms can include:

• Fractures from minor falls or injuries: This is often the first sign of osteoporosis.
• Back pain: Often due to fractures in the spine (vertebral compression fractures).
• Loss of height over time: As bones in the spine weaken, they may collapse, leading to a stooped posture and loss of height.
• A stooped posture (kyphosis): Advanced osteoporosis can cause a curvature of the upper back.

Treatments for Osteoporosis

While osteoporosis cannot be fully cured, it can be managed and its progression slowed. Treatment typically focuses on strengthening bones and preventing fractures. :

Medications:

• Bisphosphonates: These drugs (e.g., alendronate, risedronate) slow bone loss and reduce the risk of fractures.
• Denosumab: An injection given twice a year that also helps slow bone breakdown.
• Hormone-related therapy: For post-menopausal women, hormone replacement therapy (HRT) can help, though it may come with other risks.
• Selective Estrogen Receptor Modulators (SERMs): Like raloxifene, these mimic estrogen’s positive effects on bone density.
• Calcium and Vitamin D supplements: Essential for bone health and to aid the effectiveness of other treatments.
• Parathyroid hormone (PTH) analogs: For those with severe osteoporosis, drugs like teriparatide stimulate new bone growth.

Lifestyle Changes:

• Diet: A diet rich in calcium and vitamin D is essential. Foods like dairy products, leafy greens, and fortified cereals are good sources.
• Exercise: Weight-bearing and strength-training exercises help maintain bone density. Activities like walking, jogging, and lifting weights are particularly effective.
• Fall prevention: Modifying the home environment to avoid falls (e.g., securing rugs, improving lighting) can help prevent fractures.
• Bone Density Scans: Regular monitoring through a DXA (dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry) scan helps measure bone density and assess the risk of fractures, guiding treatment decisions.

In summary, osteoporosis is a widespread condition in the UK, particularly affecting older women, but it's manageable through medications, lifestyle changes, and regular monitoring. Early detection and intervention can significantly reduce the risk of fractures and improve quality of life.

Listen to this weeks radio report