The Silent Threat of Osteoporosis: Understanding,Prevention,and Early Diagnosis
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
Osteoporosis,often called the “silent disease,” poses a significant health risk,especially for women over 50. Unlike many illnesses, it doesn’t announce its presence with noticeable symptoms. This makes early detection crucial, as a fracture frequently enough serves as the first and sometimes startling signal of its presence.
Shockingly, a staggering 80% of women over 80 are affected by osteoporosis, highlighting the critical need for awareness and preventative measures. While aging and the natural decline in bone density are inevitable, proactive steps can significantly slow its progression and reduce the risk of fractures.
Menopause and bone health: A Delicate Balance
“Menopause is characterized by a shortage of estrogens, which causes an imbalance between bone formation and destruction, leading to a significant loss of bone mass,” explains Dr. María Cortés Berdonces, coordinator of the Bone Mineral Metabolism Group at the Spanish Society of Endocrinology and nutrition (SEEN).
This bone loss accelerates during the initial 5-7 years after menopause and can worsen with age due to additional contributing factors. Recognizing the profound impact of menopause on bone health is crucial in developing effective prevention strategies.
Proactive Steps for Bone Protection
While osteoporosis currently has no cure, the good news is that its progression can be slowed significantly, and bone strength can be preserved. Dr. Cortés Berdonces emphasizes the importance of “protecting the bones from the factors that affect them negatively and giving them the nutrients they need”.
Regular physical activity and avoiding a sedentary lifestyle are paramount throughout life, especially after age 50.A balanced diet rich in calcium, vitamin D, and magnesium is equally essential for maintaining bone health.
Alarmingly, up to 65% of individuals who experience osteoporosis-related fractures haven’t been diagnosed with the condition. This underscores the importance of proactive bone health screenings, particularly after age 50 and during the onset of menopause.
## Understanding and Combating the Silent Threat of Osteoporosis
### An Interview with Dr. María Cortés Berdonces
**Archyde:** Dr. Cortés Berdonces, thank you for joining us today. Osteoporosis is frequently enough called a “silent disease” as its symptoms are often undetected until a fracture occurs. Why is early detection so crucial?
**Dr. Cortés Berdonces:** That’s right. Because osteoporosis often doesn’t present noticeable symptoms until a fracture occurs, early diagnosis is vital. A fracture can be a startling first sign of the disease, and at that point, bone loss may be quite notable.
**Archyde:** It’s alarming to learn that 80% of women over 80 are affected by osteoporosis. Why are women, particularly post-menopausal women, at a higher risk?
**Dr. cortés Berdonces:** Menopause brings a sharp decline in estrogen levels. Estrogen plays a critical role in maintaining bone density. This hormonal shift tilts the balance toward bone breakdown, leading to accelerated bone loss.
**Archyde:** What steps can women take to protect their bone health, especially as they approach menopause?
**Dr.Cortés Berdonces: ** Providing our bones with the nutrients they need and safeguarding them from harmful factors is essential. A balanced diet rich in calcium, vitamin D, and magnesium is basic. Similarly, regular physical activity, particularly weight-bearing exercises, is essential to maintain bone strength.
**Archyde:** While lifestyle choices are significant,what about medical interventions? Are there any effective treatments available?
**Dr. Cortés Berdonces:** We currently don’t have a cure for osteoporosis, but its progression can be significantly slowed. Medications are available that can definitely help increase bone density and reduce the risk of fractures.
**Archyde:** You mentioned that many osteoporosis cases go undiagnosed until a fracture occurs. What do you recommend in terms of screenings and early detection?
**Dr. Cortés Berdonces:** bone mineral density tests,frequently enough called DEXA scans,are highly effective in diagnosing osteoporosis. I recommend that women, especially after age 50 and during the onset of menopause, discuss bone health screenings with their healthcare provider.
**Archyde:** Thank you, Dr. Cortés berdonces,for shedding light on this often overlooked threat to bone health.
**archyde readers: What steps are you taking to safeguard your bone health? Share your experiences and strategies in the comments below.**
## Interview: Dr. María Cortés Berdonces on Osteoporosis
**Archyde:** Welcome, Dr. Cortés Berdonces. Thank you for joining us today too discuss osteoporosis, a health concern affecting millions globally, particularly women over 50.
**Dr. Cortés Berdonces:** It’s a pleasure to be here. Osteoporosis is indeed a silent threat that deserves much greater awareness.
**Archyde:** You mentioned it’s often called the “silent disease.” What do you mean by that?
**Dr. Cortés Berdonces:** Many people don’t realize they have osteoporosis until they experience a fracture, often a surprising and painful event. This is because bone loss occurs gradually and often without noticeable symptoms.
**Archyde:** You’ve highlighted the significant impact menopause has on bone health. Can you explain this connection?
**Dr. Cortés Berdonces:** During menopause, estrogen levels decrease, which disrupts the balance between bone formation and destruction. This leads to an accelerated loss of bone mass, particularly in the initial years after menopause.
**Archyde:** This sounds concerning. Are there any steps women can take to protect their bone health, especially during and after menopause?
**Dr. Cortés Berdonces:** Absolutely. While there’s no cure for osteoporosis, we can substantially slow its progression and preserve bone strength.
Firstly, regular physical activity is crucial throughout life, but especially after 50.It’s essential to avoid a sedentary lifestyle and engage in activities that promote bone health.
Secondly, a balanced diet rich in calcium, vitamin D, and magnesium is essential. These nutrients are vital building blocks for strong bones.
**Archyde:** are there specific screenings recommended for women concerned about osteoporosis?
**dr. Cortés Berdonces:** Because fractures can be the frist sign of osteoporosis, proactive bone health screenings are crucial. We recommend women discuss these screenings with their doctors, especially after age 50 and during menopause.
**Archyde:** Thank you,Dr. Cortés Berdonces, for sharing your insights on this crucial topic. Your expertise sheds light on the silent threat of osteoporosis and encourages women to take charge of their bone health.
