What is Osteoporosis?

Osteoporosis literally means 'porous bones'. Porous bones are also brittle bones which can break even after minor trauma. Sites commonly affected are the lower forearm near the wrist, the spine and the hip.

Osteoporosis is a common problem which is likely to increase in the years to come because of a rapidly aging population. The population in Singapore is going to become more aged in the next twenty years and osteoporosis will become an even more significant problem in future.

Risk factors of Osteoporosis

Risk factors include old age, being females, having reached the menopause, having ovaries surgically removed, having both ovaries surgically removed, having a small build, taking too little calcium in the diet, being sedentary, on long term steroid medications, drinking excessive alcohol and smoking.

All men and women could be at risk. Some are at higher risk than others. The risk factors include:

· A previous non-violent fracture

· Early menopause before age 45, whether natural or through surgery

· A member of your immediate family who has osteoporosis

· Being underweight or undernourished

· Being frail due to long-term illness

· Smoking

· Drinking too much alcohol

· Not exercising much or not being able to move for a long period of time

· A diet that does not have enough calcium or vitamin D

· Certain illnesses e.g. rheumatoid arthritis

Certain medicine e.g. corticosteroids, thyroid medication

If you are a post-menopausal women, click on this