Osteoporosis can have fatal consequences

Osteoporosis, also known colloquially as “bone loss,” is one of the most common diseases in old age.

Osteoporosis, also known colloquially as “bone loss”, is one of the most common diseases in old age. It mainly affects women after the menopause. In general, men of a comparable age have a 50% lower risk of suffering a bone fracture. For a woman, the risk of suffering a fracture caused by osteoporosis after the menopause is higher than the combined risks for Heart attack, Stroke and breast cancer. One in two women will suffer a fracture caused by osteoporosis before the end of their lives. Despite extensive education of the population over the last two decades, the treatment rate has not changed; it remains at just 2%. The fact that only 20% of patients can continue to lead an independent life after a hip fracture shows how fatal the consequences of inadequate treatment can be. The progression of osteoporosis can be slowed down with measures taken early on.

Diagnosis osteoporosis

The diagnosis is made by a bone density measurement using the DXA procedure. According to the WHO, osteoporosis is present from a T-value of -2,5. The DVO (German Association of Osteology) risk score is used to estimate the 10-year risk of spinal and hip fractures. If the risk of suffering a bone fracture is over 30%, drug therapy should be started. Whether therapy is indicated can be determined using the DVO's "staircase scheme". There are now a large number of drugs available, so that therapy can be adapted to individual circumstances.

Physical activity prevents osteoporosis

Muscle training and coordination exercises are important. Immobilization should be avoided at all costs. Sufficient exercise and endurance training combined with strength rebuilds the bone.

calcium-rich Nutrition

A diet rich in calcium protects against osteoporosis. Calcium is found primarily in milk and dairy products such as cheese and yoghurt, but also in green leafy vegetables. Women should increase their daily calcium intake from 51 mg to 1.000 mg from the age of 1.200. For men, this applies from the age of 71. If the normal diet is not sufficient, taking calcium tablets can be useful. At the same time, 800-1.000 IU of vitamin D3 should be taken daily.