World Osteoporosis Day: A silent destroyer of bones

Bengaluru: On World Osteoporosis Day (20th October) it has come to light that  osteoporosis causes more than 8.9 million fractures annually worldwide and is estimated to affect 200 million across the globe. 80% of the victims of osteoporosis worldwide are women above the age of 50 years. However, in India the exact incidence of osteoporosis is difficult to assess due to lack of awareness among people about this silent destroyer of bones.

"Osteoporosis is an under- diagnosed condition and it is estimated that about 50 million Indians might be harboring weak bones. Awareness regarding osteoporosis is very low; only about 10-15% of urban adults in India are aware of this bone disorder and it is practically unheard-of by the rural population," says Dr Abhay Gundgurthi, Consultant, Endocrinology, HOSMAT Hospital.

Osteoporosis is most commonly seen in post-menopausal women. One in two post-menopausal women have osteoporosis. "The disorder is a major cause of mortality and morbidity among the elderly, and afflicts more women than men. After menopause women are more likely to suffer from osteoporosis due to hormonal changes.

However, bone demineralization may start as early as the late 30s if calcium and vitamin D intakes are insufficient. Lack of physical activity is another risk factor for osteoporosis” says Dr Naveen Ramanaik Hoysala, Consultant Orthopedics, Arthroscopic and joint replacement surgeon, Fortis Hospitals.

In the city, various manifestations of osteoporosis are surfacing among the younger population as well. Speaking about the incidence of osteoporosis in the city, Dr J V Srinivas, consultant orthopedic surgeon at Fortis Hospital says, "Vitamin D deficiency has become rampant in our city.

Lack of sun exposure, lack of light due to long working hours, indoor working environment, and intentionally avoiding sunlight and use of sunscreen has led to Vitamin D deficiency. Which is why techies working for long hours indoors are requested to take note of this as vitamin D deficiency is becoming a major contributing factor among the younger generation who have  osteoporosis".

On the measures taken to treat the disorder, Dr Naveen says, "Osteoporosis can be easily diagnosed through bone mineral density (BMD) scan”.