|
:: General Features of Disease
Also called porous bone disease or brittle bone disease Characterized by reduced bone density and strength Associated with increased risk of fractures Bones most susceptible to breaking are:
Spinal vertebrae Hip Wrists Ribs
Initial symptom is often mid- to lower back pain Causes decrease in height of up to 15 cm, and curvature of the spine (kyphosis) resulting in "dowager's hump"
:: Prevalence
More prevalent in women than men, but affects both sexes Osteoporosis is a major and costly public health issue. Prevalence and cost are expected
to increase as population ages Persons of white or Asian descent are most likely to be affected More prevalent among older persons, but can strike at any age
:: Impact
Hip fractures are associated with increased risk of mortality: 25% of sufferers die within one
year of breaking their hips Only half of those breaking a hip return to pre-injury functional status In 1990, 25 000 Canadians suffered hip fractures; the cost of acute and long-term rehabilitative
care was estimated to be $400 million
:: Diagnosis
Bone mineral density measurement is typically required for making the diagnosis and is generally performed by:
:: Risk Factors
Gender: women are more susceptible Advanced age Early menopause, estrogen deficiency, abnormal absence or suppression of menstruation Family history of disease, especially minimum trauma fracture Small, thin or tall, lean build Calcium and vitamin D intake deficiency Physical inactivity or immobilization Excessive use of corticosteroids, thyroid medications, anticonvulsants, or anticoagulants Cigarette smoking Excessive alcohol
If after consulting this list you feel you are at risk for osteoporosis, consult your physician.
Disclaimer: the information contained in the Osteoporosis Fact Sheet has been done to the best of our knowledge. However, neither CaMos nor its staff can be held responsible for its accuracy, and, in consequence, we disclaim any liability directly or indirectly from the use of the information conveyed.
|
:: Quick links
Bone and tooth society
www.batsoc.org.uk
Arthritis Society
www.arthritis.ca
Osteoporosis Canada
www.osteoporosis.ca
|
