October 20 is commemorated as the day of osteoporosis worldwide. First launched in 1996 by the United Kingdom’s National Osteoporosis Society and subsequently organized by the International Osteoporosis Foundation. World Osteoporant Day Commemoration aims to raise global public awareness about prevention, diagnosis and treatment of osteoporosis.

Osteoporosis causes the bones to become weak and brittle-so that when falling or even mild pressure such as bending or bathing can cause fractures. Fractures or osteoporosis-related fractures most commonly occur in the hip, wrist or spine.

Bone is a living tissue that is constantly broken down and replaced. Osteoporosis occurs when the formation of new bone does not match the removal of old bone.

Is it only women who have osteoporosis? Certainly not. Osteoporosis affects men and women of all races. However, women who experience menopause are at high risk of developing osteoporosis.

Treatment, healthy diet and weight-bearing exercise can help prevent bone loss or strengthen already weakened bones.

In the early stages, osteoporosis usually does not show symptoms. But once osteoporosis weakens your bones, it may have signs or symptoms that include:

• Back pain, caused by cracked or torn spine
• Lose height from time to time
• Hunched post
• The bone fractures that occur are much easier than expected

Continue reading “Osteoporosis and Bone Health” →