May is National Osteoporosis Awareness Month, and Parkview LaGrange Hospital will be reaching out to help educate the public about the disease, its prevention and treatment options.
The National Osteoporosis Foundation estimates that 10 million Americans currently suffer from osteoporosis and another 34 million may be at increased risk of developing the disease due to low bone mass. In 2005, the costs of osteoporosis-related fractures were approximately $19 billion; these costs are expected to increase to $25.3 billion by 2025.
Through a process called “remodeling,” bones are constantly growing, with new bone cells replacing the old. It is estimated that the human skeleton replaces itself every 10 years. Osteoporosis is caused when bone loss outpaces new bone growth, reducing the overall bone mass.
Though the development of osteoporosis is most prevalent in Caucasian women over 50, the disease affects both sexes, may be developed at any age, and is seen in growing numbers of people of Hispanic and African-American origin. Among the factors that increase the risk for osteoporosis are:
• Gender (being female)
• Family history of osteoporosis or broken bones
• Older age
• Low levels of estrogen or testosterone
• Small, thin build
• Inactive lifestyle
• Smoking
• Alcohol abuse
• Low levels of calcium and vitamin D in the diet
• Certain medications such as steroid medications, some anticonvulsants and others
• Certain diseases and conditions such as anorexia nervosa, rheumatoid arthritis, gastrointestinal diseases and others
The disease has no overt symptoms and a person may be completely unaware they have it until a minor fall or – in serious cases – a simple sneeze causes them to break a bone. People who have increased risk factors for osteoporosis are encouraged to have a regular bone density screening.
To encourage members of the public to assess their risk of osteoporosis, Parkview LaGrange Hospital’s Diagnostic Imaging department will be offering free Achilles bone density screenings every Friday throughout May. Appointments are required and should be made by calling the department’s reception desk at 260/463-9070.