Understanding Osteoporosis

What is Osteoporosis?

It is a common bone disease caused by insufficient bone tissue (low bone mass).

Gaps appear in the bone structure and bones consequently become thinner and weaker. This can lead to brittleness which can increase the risk of fractures.

What causes Osteoporosis?

Bone is a living tissue constantly being renewed throughout your life by breaking down old bone and forming new. These two actions are controlled by certain hormones and vitamin D.

Osteoporosis occurs when bone is broken down faster than it can be built resulting in a loss of bone.

Factors which may contribute to Osteoporosis

• Low Hormone levels
• Poor diet
• Low Calcium intake
• Inadequate exposure to sunlight
• Lack of exercise
• Smoking
• Family History
• Long term use of corticosteroids

Risks associated with Osteoporosis

Can be responsible for fractures.

What are the signs of Osteoporosis

It is difficult to know if you have the disease in the early stages as it can be painless for some time. Severe Osteoporosis can cause loss of height. Once it has been diagnosed it is important to seek therapy and stay on the therapy.

Can Osteoporosis be treated?

Drugs to improve bone density are available which have shown to reduce the risk of fractures 60-70%. An Adequate diet in vitamin D and calcium is also recommended.

Osteoporosis Screening Service (O.S.S.)

The first Monday of each month the above screening service attends The Health Station.

The screening is quick, accurate, non invasive, painless and inexpensive.

Prices can be found here.