Healthy Bones
World Osteoporosis Day: Tips to Keep Your Bones Healthy
Bones and Their Functions
Bones give shape and structural support to the body, and are the "struts" that hold the body together. Bones differ in their shapes, sizes, and functions. Perhaps one of its most important functions is that it supports the body structurally, protects the internal vital organs, and also helps the body move. Bones are also a storage area for minerals, especially calcium, as well as providing a suitable environment for the growth of bone marrow, where blood cells are manufactured.
Bone Density and Osteoporosis
Bone density is the amount of bone tissue in a certain size of bone, and it is considered a test of bone mineral density (BMD). One of the most important tests for bone density; It is usually performed by radiographic scanning of the lower spine or hip. Bone density measurements are often used to diagnose osteoporosis and other bone diseases.
Dr. Tariq Jawad, Consultant Orthopedic Surgeon from Fakeeh University Hospital
World Osteoporosis Day
World Osteoporosis Day is celebrated on October 20 of each year, and is an occasion to raise awareness about the importance of bone health, especially among women who are considered more vulnerable to osteoporosis, a silent disease that causes bones to become weak, brittle, and easily broken.
Causes and Contributing Factors of Osteoporosis
There are many factors that increase the risk of osteoporosis in women. Some cannot be controlled, such as age, gender, family history, and race. However, many modifiable factors can significantly affect bone health, including:
- Poor diet: Lack of calcium and vitamin D in the diet can lead to weak bones.
- Lack of physical activity: Bones adapt to physical stress, which means that regular exercise promotes bone formation. Therefore, lack of physical activity contributes to the loss of bone density.
- Smoking and alcohol: Smoking and excessive drinking can weaken bones and increase the risk of osteoporosis.
- Hormones: As mentioned earlier, declining estrogen levels after menopause play a major role in weak bones.
Tips to Keep Your Bones Healthy
Improving bone health requires sustainable steps throughout life, especially for women who are at higher risk for osteoporosis. Below are some effective ways to promote bone health and prevent osteoporosis, as reported by Dr. Jawad:
- Follow a diet rich in calcium and vitamin D
- Do physical exercise regularly
- Maintain a healthy weight
- Avoid harmful habits
Osteoporosis and Available Treatments
There are many treatments available for osteoporosis. Some treatments aim to promote bone formation, while others help reduce the rate of bone loss. Hormone replacement therapy can help some postmenopausal women maintain bone density. However, each treatment must be carried out under close medical supervision, to avoid possible side effects.
The Role of Society in Promoting Bone Health
Promoting bone health requires joint efforts from individuals and society alike. The medical community can organize periodic awareness campaigns to highlight the importance of bone health and how to prevent osteoporosis. Health institutions can also organize free or discounted examinations to encourage women to undergo the necessary examinations.
Conclusion
In conclusion; ahead of World Osteoporosis Day, women should remember that bone health is not a luxury, but a necessity to maintain quality of life as we age. By eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly, and avoiding harmful habits, women can improve their bone health and prevent osteoporosis. Regular examination and early therapeutic intervention can contribute to reducing the risk of fractures and improving the quality and well-being of life.