2024-11-02 07:00:00
Every year, October 20 is dedicated to World Osteoporosis Day.a degenerative bone disease which affects nearly 4 million people in France. Let’s return to the prevention of osteoporosis and the guidelines for this 2024 world day initiated by the International Osteoporosis Foundation.
Osteoporosis: who and how?
Given the increase in life expectancy, theosteoporosis represents a public health issue of primary importance. So, It is estimated that 39% of women aged 65 suffer from osteoporosis.. This proportion rises to 70% for women aged 80. In women, the disease is closely linked to menopause, but men can also be affected. It is estimated that from the age of 50one in 3 women is affected and one in 5 men.
Thus, the number of people suffering from osteoporosis in France was estimated at nearly 4 million in 2019, or 5.5% of the total population. Thus, almost 490,000 fragility fractures occurred in 2019. This figure, according to INSERM, could rise to more than 610,000 in 2034. The most frequently encountered fractures affect the hip (neck of the femur), the vertebrae or the wrist. These fractures very often alter the quality of life patients (persistent pain and loss of self-confidence) but can also endanger the vital prognosis the oldest or most fragile people.
Also read – Osteoporosis, what treatment in 2024?
World Osteoporosis Day
The theme of this year 2024 for World Osteoporosis Day is “ Move for your bones (walk, run, climb stairs, join a gym, lift weights »
The organized activities are:
Information campaigns : Conferences, workshops and public events organized by associations and health professionals from healthcare establishments (rheumatologist, physiotherapist, occupational therapist);Free screenings : bone density tests may be offered free of charge to encourage screening;Online and social media events : distribution of brochures and explanatory and educational videos to raise awareness among a wider audience.
This year, physical exercise is highlighted in the 2024 edition of the world day.
Indeed, sport or adapted physical activity plays a beneficial role on bone mineral density.
In older people, physical activity will maintain muscles and balance. Consequently, the risk of falls and associated fractures is greatly reduced. Conversely, lack of physical exercise and a sedentary lifestyle promote the loss of bone mass.
To know! Bone mineral density is measured by bone densitometry. To assess bone density, a certain amount of energy passes through the patient’s body and the amount of energy that “comes out” is measured. A subtraction makes it possible to obtain the quantity of energy absorbed at the bone, and thus to evaluate its density.
Other factors that help reduce the risk of osteoporosis are:
Nutrition: calcium, vitamin D and protein are the most important elements for bone health. Proper exposure to sunlight will help you get enough vitamin D ;Lifestyle: consists of maintaining a healthy weight, avoiding smoking and drinking alcohol excessively;Identification of risk factors: these are the history of fracture, a family history with osteoporosis and the taking of specific medications affecting good bone health;Getting tested and treated: if you are at high risk, you will probably need medication (anti-osteoporosis treatment) and lifestyle changes to protect against fractures;Living through menopause well: prescribing menopausal hormonal treatment (THM) if necessary is a way to prevent the risk of fracture linked to osteoporosis.
To know! All women should have a bone densitometry before the age of 65. The same applies to all men before the age of 70, in order to assess their personal risk. This exam is reimbursed by Social Security.
Read also – Bone strength: nutrition has a better impact than exercise
The main research issues
Research in the field of osteoporosis remains active, because many mechanisms the origin of the disease are still little known or unknown. Research and development efforts are also being carried out to better detect osteoporosis and for better treat the patients.
This research focuses in particular on:
Gene identification factors and susceptibility genes associated with rare forms of the disease;Improved diagnosis : beyond bone mineral density, osteoporosis is also explained by an alteration in the architecture of bone tissue. Research work focuses on the development of clinical tools to measure this alteration. Another avenue of research: the development of a new score (FRAX 2) to assess the risk of fracture;Improving clinical research by the use of efficient imaging methods and by the development of biomarkers reflecting the effectiveness of the therapies evaluated;
To know! To help doctors assess the risk of osteoporotic fracture within 10 years, tools are made available to them, such as the FRAX, which integrates 12 parameters (bone mineral density, age, weight, tobacco consumption, alcohol , vitamin D and calcium deficiency, treatments previously received, history of fractures in the patient or their parents, associated chronic illnesses, etc.).
Also read – The different treatments for osteoporosis
Sources
– Osteoporosis, Weakened bones at risk of fracture. www.inserm.fr. Accessed October 21, 2024.
– About Osteoporosis. www.worldosteoporosisday.org. Accessed October 21, 2024.
– Osteoporosis: diagnosis and progression. www.ameli.fr. Accessed October 21, 2024.
Written by Julie P.
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**Interview on World Osteoporosis Day 2024**
**Date:** November 2, 2024
**Guest:** Dr. Marie Dupont, Rheumatologist and Osteoporosis Specialist
**Editor:** Good morning, Dr. Dupont! With World Osteoporosis Day just a couple of weeks ago on October 20, we’re eager to discuss the significance of this year’s theme, “Move for your bones.” Can you elaborate on the importance of physical activity in preventing osteoporosis?
**Dr. Dupont:** Good morning! Absolutely, the theme emphasizes the crucial role of physical activity in maintaining bone health. Regular exercise, especially weight-bearing activities such as walking, running, or even climbing stairs, directly benefits bone density. For older individuals, staying active enhances muscle strength and balance, consequently reducing the risk of falls, which is particularly important since falls can lead to serious fractures.
**Editor:** We’ve seen some alarming statistics about osteoporosis in France, with nearly 4 million people affected. What demographic is most at risk, and why?
**Dr. Dupont:** Yes, osteoporosis is indeed a growing concern, especially among older adults. Our data indicates that approximately 39% of women aged 65 suffer from osteoporosis, increasing to 70% for those aged 80. This condition is closely linked to menopause in women, but men are also at risk, especially after age 50. Factors such as genetics, hormone levels, lifestyle choices, and diet all play a role in bone health.
**Editor:** You mentioned lifestyle factors—what specific lifestyle changes should individuals consider to mitigate their risk?
**Dr. Dupont:** It’s important for everyone to focus on a balanced diet rich in calcium and vitamin D, maintain a healthy weight, and engage in regular physical activity. Avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption are crucial as well. Regular screenings, especially for those at higher risk, can lead to early detection and treatment, which is essential for prevention.
**Editor:** Speaking of screenings, could you highlight the importance of bone densitometry? When should individuals consider getting tested?
**Dr. Dupont:** Bone densitometry is a vital tool for assessing an individual’s bone health. I recommend that all women should have this test before the age of 65, while men should be screened before age 70. It’s a straightforward procedure that can identify bone density issues early, allowing for timely intervention and treatment if necessary.
**Editor:** Lastly, Dr. Dupont, can you tell us about the ongoing research in osteoporosis and its implications for future treatments?
**Dr. Dupont:** Certainly! Research is vital as we continue to explore the mechanisms behind osteoporosis. Current efforts are focused on identifying genetic factors that contribute to the disease and developing new treatments that could offer better outcomes for patients. These advances in research may ultimately lead to enhanced detection and more effective therapies, which is promising for those affected by osteoporosis.
**Editor:** Thank you for sharing your insights, Dr. Dupont. It’s clear that initiatives like World Osteoporosis Day play a critical role in raising awareness and promoting preventative measures.
**Dr. Dupont:** Thank you for having me! It’s essential that we continue to spread awareness and encourage proactive steps to protect our bone health.
**Editor:** We appreciate your time and expertise today. Until next time!
