Osteoporosis – the silent enemy
Osteoporosis is a dangerous condition in that in most cases it is entirely symptom-free, developing slowly over many years. In fact, the first sign of any problem is a fracture, when the condition is already at an advanced stage.
However, there may be very many subtle symptoms, such as localised back pain. Unfortunately, though, these are often symptoms of other degenerative or unrelated conditions which do not have an adverse effect on health.
The occurrence of osteoporosis is related to age, sex, race, hereditary risk factors, particular changes in the body (such as the female menopause, where reducing hormone levels such as oestrogen and progesterone may result in as much as a 7% loss of bone mass yearly), menstrual disorders, lifestyle, stimulants, diet and appropriate vitamin and mineral levels. Osteoporosis is partly considered a disease of civilisation. It is a general disease of the skeletal system, characterised by low bone mass and disorders in the structure of the bone tissue.
Among the available non-invasive examinations, a densitometer test is a basic tool allowing the early identification of osteoporosis, allowing a precise measurement of bone mass (exact to 1%). Following the densitometer test, a computer image of the bone structure is generated. In comparison with biochemical tests, which, in the case of non-complicated osteoporosis will be within the norms, or with X-ray examinations, which shows only significant loss (above 30%), densitometry is a highly reliable test.
This is highly significant, when we consider that the most effective way of combating osteoporosis is prevention and suppressive care. Therefore, the importance of examination and early identification of the condition is of vital importance. Medications to improve bone density are rarely used and their efficacy has not been proven.
