Osteoporosis is often referred to as the ‘Silent Disease’.  This is because osteoporosis usually has no side effects or symptoms until a fracture happens, due to brittle & fragile bones.

Osteoporosis occurs when bones lose minerals, such as Calcium, more quickly than the body can replace them, leading to a loss of bone thickness.  You may ask “Can all bones be affected?” The answer, any bone can be affected, however, the most common sites for osteoporosis to develop are in the hip, spine, wrist, ribs, pelvis and upper arm.  Osteoporotic fractures can lead to changes in posture, chronic pain, disability and even loss of independence.  About 50% of people who have had one osteoporotic fracture will have another, as the risk increases with each new fracture – the cascade effect.

Women are more prone to develop osteoporosis than men, mostly due to the rapid decline in oestrogen levels after menopause.  The hormone Oestrogen is very important for maintaining healthy bones, and when a decrease in oestrogen levels occurs, bones lose calcium (and other minerals) at a fast rate – bone loss is approximately 1% - 5% per year after menopause.

Men, as they age also lose bone but their bone mass generally remains adequate.  Certain risk factors such as reduced calcium intake and low levels of Vitamin D can increase age related bone loss. 

Risk Factors for osteoporosis

• Any family history of osteoporosis & fractures
  Certain conditions & medications such as;
• Cortico-steroids (commonly used for Asthma)
• Rheumatiod arthritis
• Over-active Thyroid or parathyroid glands
• Coeliac disease & other chronic gut conditions
• Chronic liver and kidney disease

“1 in 2 women and 1 in 3 men over the age of 60 will have an osteoporotic fracture”

Osteoporosis risk - quiz - Better Health Channel. Click here for more information