Osteoporosis affects more than 15 million people in Brazil (WHO) and represents a serious public health problem
Today is World and National Osteoporosis Day (20/10). The disease will cause a bone fracture in 1 in 3 women and 1 in 5 men over the age of 50 worldwide. Even after a fracture, about 80% of patients do not receive diagnosis and treatment, data from the Brazilian Association of Bone Evaluation and Osteometabolism (ABRASSO) indicates.
“Osteoporosis is preventable. That’s why every year we launch a campaign to guide people, including some tests on bone health, so we can reduce these statistics,” says endocrinologist Dr. Sergio Setsuo Maeda, president of ABRASSO.
Osteoporosis
Osteoporosis is characterized by loss of mass and deterioration of bone quality with advancing age, especially after menopause in women. It is a silent disease, as it is often only diagnosed when a person suffers a broken bone after a fall. The main fracture sites are the wrist, spine and hip.
Fractures resulting from osteoporosis can cause pain and reduced mobility, making it difficult to perform basic daily activities. Furthermore, hip fractures in particular can lead to long periods of hospital stay, with an increased risk of infection and death.
“This is a serious public health problem, with numerous hospitalizations and people unable to resume life after a fracture due to bone fragility”, comments the expert.
Prevention measures start from childhood, emphasizes Dr. Maeda. He recommends, for example:
- Good intake of foods rich in calcium, such as milk and dairy products;
- Regular physical activity with resistance and balance exercises, aimed at strengthening muscles, bones and joints;
- Sun exposure for the formation of vitamin D.
4 facts to understand the disease
The specialist has separated four facts about osteoporosis to better understand the scope and impact of the disease. Watch:
- In women over age 45, fractures due to osteoporosis result in more days of hospitalization than many other diseases, including diabetes, heart attack and breast cancer;
- Approximately 20% to 24% of patients die within the first year after a hip fracture;
- About 40 percent of people who have a hip fracture are unable to walk without assistance; 60% require assistance one year later; 80% are unable to drive and/or shop.
- Thirty-three percent of hip fracture patients become fully dependent or in a nursing home in the year following their hip fracture.
Source: Terra
Ben Stock is a lifestyle journalist and author at Gossipify. He writes about topics such as health, wellness, travel, food and home decor. He provides practical advice and inspiration to improve well-being, keeps readers up to date with latest lifestyle news and trends, known for his engaging writing style, in-depth analysis and unique perspectives.
