Osteoporosis is a condition where our bones start to weaken and become more porous, making them fragile and more likely to break. This condition is usually associated with women, but it also affects men.
However, men are often overlooked in discussions about osteoporosis in part because it’s more common in women than in men.
What Causes Osteoporosis?
Osteoporosis is caused by a loss of bone density, which makes bones become weaker and more likely to break. There are several risk factors that can increase the likelihood of developing osteoporosis:.
Age
Our bones start to lose density after our peak bone mass between the ages of 18 and 25. As we grow older, we start to lose bone mass faster than we build it, which increases the risk of developing osteoporosis.
Gender
Women are typically at greater risk of osteoporosis than men due to lower peak bone mass and the hormonal changes that happen during menopause.
However, men can also develop osteoporosis especially if they have other risk factors or underlying medical conditions that affect their bone health.
Family History
You have a higher risk of osteoporosis if a parent or sibling has had a hip fracture or if another family member has osteoporosis.
Smoking
Smoking can cause bone loss and increase the risk of osteoporosis.
Low Calcium and Vitamin D Intake
A diet low in calcium and vitamin D makes you more susceptible to bone loss and osteoporosis. Vitamin D helps your body absorb calcium, which is essential for bone health.
Inactivity
Lack of exercise or physical activity can cause bones to become brittle and weak, increasing the risk of developing osteoporosis. Weight-bearing exercises, such as walking or jogging, are particularly beneficial for building strong bones.
Medical Conditions/Drugs Affecting Bone Health
Several medical conditions or their treatments can cause bone loss, which can lead to osteoporosis. Some examples include hyperthyroidism, Crohn’s disease, rheumatoid arthritis, and medications such as corticosteroids and anticonvulsants.
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Both sexes experience Osteoporosis
Symptoms of Osteoporosis
Osteoporosis is typically asymptomatic until a bone fracture occurs. Fractures are the most common complication of osteoporosis and often occur in the wrists, hips, and spine.
Spinal fractures can also cause loss of height, a curvature of the spine, and chronic pain.
Prevention and Treatment of Osteoporosis
Preventing and treating osteoporosis involves maintaining good bone health. Key steps that people can take to improve their bone health and prevent osteoporosis include:.
Eating a Nutritious Diet
A diet rich in calcium and vitamin D is important for maintaining good bone health. Calcium is important for building strong bones, and vitamin D helps the body absorb calcium.
Exercising Regularly
Weight-bearing exercises such as running, walking, hiking, or dancing can strengthen bones. It is recommended that adults get at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise most days of the week.
Avoiding Smoking and Alcohol
Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption both increase the risk of osteoporosis and bone fractures. People who smoke or drink heavily should consider quitting, or at least limiting their consumption.
Taking Medications as Prescribed
If you are taking medication that can cause bone loss, speak to your doctor about whether there are alternative treatments available that do not have this side effect.
Alternatively, your doctor may prescribe medications that help strengthen bones if you are at risk of developing osteoporosis.
Conclusion
Osteoporosis is a condition that affects both men and women. Women are typically at greater risk of developing osteoporosis due to hormonal changes after menopause, but men can also develop it.
People can take steps to prevent or treat osteoporosis by eating a nutritious diet, exercising regularly, avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption, and taking medications as prescribed.
