‘Step Up For Bone Health’ Theme of World Osteoporosis Day Is Observed On October 20 Every Year

Oct, 2022 - By SMI

World Osteoporosis Day is yet another day of health awareness, observed annually to create awareness through campaigns and activities teaching common people risks associated with osteoporosis.

Osteoporosis is a condition in which bone density decreases so much so that it makes bone weak, brittle and porous that even minor fall or bump may cause fracture happen. Peak bone mass is reached between the age of 25 to 30. After twenties, one has to maintain healthy lifestyle and proper diet to prevent loss of bone mass. By the age of 40, old bones aren’t replaced anymore. This loss of bone mass results in osteoporosis to develop.

Women are more prone to suffer from osteoporosis than men. This gender biases are due t the difference in the body structure, females have thin and small body frame hence are more susceptible for bone degeneration. Studies shows one in three women and one in five men above age 50 suffer from fracture due to osteoporosis. Another reason which adds to this gender selection of disease is menopause seen in women due to which women lose their bone density by 20percent. Studies have shown hereditary link in osteoporosis.

One can self-test their bone health by taking quiz or check or read more about osteoporosis risk at worldosteoporosisday.org website. But here is some basic information one can go through for getting aware. Symptoms of osteoporosis are: weaker grip strength, brittle n weak finger nails, severe back or neck pain, fractures from minor fall or stumble.

Calcium and vitamin D are vital for stronger bones and joints. Calcium helps support teeth and bone structure while vitamin D amplify calcium assimilation and promotes bone growth. So, focusing on daily intake of foods which are good sources of calcium and vitamin D. Healthy lifestyle as regular exercise, weight lifting, avoiding smoking and alcohol consumption, daily exposure to sun and maintaining proper body mass will be beneficial to prevent the disease.

Lack of facilities and early diagnosis which led to delay in treatment therefore the condition adverse and hence it is of utmost importance to create osteoporosis awareness among common people so that it can be prevented.