KARACHI, Jan 10: With an increase in the number of aged population around the globe, particularly in the developing world, there is a constant surge in the incidence of “osteoporosis”.

According to estimates, more women could be seen dying of osteoporosis, a condition in which bones become fragile and easily broken because of lack of calcium.

From the beginning of menopause, women undergo an accelerated period of bone loss and the rate may even be as rapid as three to five per cent per year, experts maintain.

Though brittle bone condition is equally experienced by men, post-menopausal women are found to be at particular risk, especially if they have experienced an early menopause.

It is mainly due to the fact that oestrogen protects the bones and as these levels fall at menopause the danger of osteoporosis increases. Scan are suggested for such women to decide whether to use Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) or to take other measures as anti-resorptive therapy.

Women with diabetes are also cited to be especially susceptible to osteoporosis as are those receiving thyroid replacements. Among others at high risk are individuals taking medications as systemic steroids, heparin, anticonvulsants and antacids containing aluminium. Female athletes are noticed to be exceedingly vulnerable to the condition.

Also those who have been diagnosed with anorexia nervosa or other eating disorders besides groups inflicted with Turner’s Syndrome are comparatively more likely to suffer from the problem of bone fragility.

Anyone experiencing unexplained back pain, loss of height, recent fractures or increasing curvature of upper spine are particularly advised to have a scan.

Orthopaedic experts often warn age population that they may be unaware of fractures of vertebra which commonly occurs in the mid-thoracic (chest) region.

Fractures are typically sudden and unexpected and there is often minimal or no trauma associated with the event. The pain of fracture could be severe and is not necessarily localised at the site of the fracture.

People can delay the process by starting health habits as regular walking which stimulates the building up of bone material. Early weight bearing exercise also helps besides calcium intake of 1500mg per day and exposure to sun, unprotected, for at least 15 every day.—APP