Osteoporosis is increasingly becoming a health problem, especially among the elderly in the middle class. Changes in lifestyle and diet over the past few decades have raised the risk of this disease in many countries, including Indonesia. Advancing age, lack of physical activity, and low calcium intake are all significant factors that trigger osteoporosis. So, what exactly is osteoporosis, and who is potentially at risk of experiencing it?
What is Osteoporosis?
Osteoporosis is a health condition where bone density decreases, making bones weak and brittle. People with osteoporosis are more likely to suffer fractures or cracks from minor impacts or falls. The term "osteoporosis" originates from Greek, meaning "porous bone".
Normally, bones continuously produce new bone tissue and eliminate old bone tissue. However, in people with osteoporosis, the formation of new bone is slower than the loss of old bone tissue, leading to decreased bone density.
Symptoms of Osteoporosis
Osteoporosis is often called a "silent disease" because symptoms are not always immediately felt until a bone fracture occurs. Some signs that may appear include:
Back pain: occurs due to the spine weakening or even breaking due to osteoporosis.
Decreased height over time because the vertebrae (spine) collapse.
Hunched posture because damage to the spine causes the posture to change to become more hunched.
Bone fractures often occur, especially in vulnerable areas such as the wrist, pelvis, or spine, even with minor impacts or without significant trauma.
Causes of Osteoporosis
Osteoporosis is the result of an imbalance between the formation of new bone and the breakdown of old bone. Some factors that can increase the risk of osteoporosis include:
Age: The risk of osteoporosis increases with age, especially after age 50.
Gender: Women are at higher risk than men, especially after menopause due to decreased estrogen levels.
Family history: If a family member has osteoporosis, the risk also increases for their offspring.
Lifestyle: Lack of exercise, a diet low in calcium, and smoking or excessive alcohol consumption can worsen bone conditions.
Medical conditions and medications: Certain diseases such as hyperthyroidism and long-term treatment with corticosteroids can also affect bone health.
Solutions and Ways to Overcome Osteoporosis
Osteoporosis cannot be completely cured, but there are steps that can be taken to slow its progression and prevent fractures. Here are some ways to do that:
Increase Calcium and Vitamin D Intake: Calcium is important for maintaining bone density, while vitamin D helps the body absorb calcium more effectively.
Regular Exercise: Physical activities that involve weight training, such as walking, jogging, or strength training, can help strengthen bones if done regularly.
Avoid Alcohol and Cigarettes: These habits can accelerate bone loss, so they should be avoided before they cause symptoms.
Medical Consultation: Osteoporosis sufferers may need drugs to slow bone damage or help regenerate new bone, so consulting a doctor for ongoing treatment is important.
Osteoporosis is a disease that is often overlooked until the condition becomes serious. It is important to raise awareness about maintaining bone health from an early age. At K-Lab, we provide screening services to detect osteoporosis problems with Calcium (Ca), CTx, 25-OH Vitamin D, and Phosphorus examinations. Please visit our clinic immediately or contact us via WhatsApp at 081381367915 for more information. Maintaining bone health is an important long-term investment for a better quality of life in old age. Warm regards from K-Lab!
Referensi:
Healthline – Osteoporosis: What You Need to Know
Mayo Clinic – Osteoporosis
World Health Organization (WHO) – Osteoporosis Overview
Harvard Health – How to Keep Your Bones Strong
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