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Osteoporosis affects 1.2 million Australians, with 6.3 million more having low bone density. In those aged 50 and over, 66% have osteoporosis or osteopenia, leading to over 183,000 fractures annually due to poor bone health. These minimal trauma fractures can cause significant pain and impair daily functioning, resulting in reduced independence, disability and even premature death. (1)

The word osteoporosis means ‘porous bones’ and is a condition in which bones lose minerals such as calcium making them weak and fragile. Osteoporosis can be a silent condition and often people are unaware they are affected until they experience a bone break, which is frequently caused by little or no trauma to the bone.

Osteopenia is another bone related condition in which bone mineral density is reduced, but not to the extent seen in Osteoporosis. (2)

Who is at Risk?

Due to a rapid decline in oestrogen levels during menopause, women are at a higher risk of developing osteoporosis than men whose testosterone levels decline more slowly as they age.

Other risk factors include:

  • Family history
  • Inadequate calcium and vitamin D
  • Lack of exercise
  • Age 70 or over
  • Smoking or excessive alcohol
  • Some medical conditions – e.g. coeliac disease, chronic kidney or liver disease
  • Some medications – long-term corticosteroids (3)

People aged 50 years or older who have risk factors for osteoporosis are recommended to have a bone density scan. This can be arranged through most medical imaging outlets with a valid referral from a GP. The DEXA scan is quick, only taking around 10-15 minutes and will inform your health professional as to whether any actions such as medications are required to help protect your bones. (4)

The good news is, there are effective medications available for treatment of osteoporosis, in the form of weekly or monthly tablets as well as medicines that can be administered just once or twice a year. These aim to slow or block the bone removing cells, while allowing the bone forming cells to work, resulting in increased bone strength. It is very important to use these medicines as directed to ensure bones remain protected on an ongoing basis. Lapsing treatment leaves bones at risk of fracture. Supplementation with Vitamin D and calcium may also be recommended. (5)

Maintaining Healthy Bones

Maintaining good bone health is an important factor in reducing the risk and potential impact of osteoporosis and should be a focus for all people, but especially those with other risk factors for the condition.

  • Calcium is crucial for building and maintaining bone health throughout every life stage. Recommended calcium intake for women over 50 and men over 70 years of age is 1300mg. It’s best if this can be achieved through foods such as dairy, seafood, and vegetables however there are supplements available if needed.
  • Vitamin D helps the body absorb calcium, which is vital for bone health. While sunlight is a primary source of Vitamin D for many people, it's important to balance sun exposure with skin cancer prevention. If levels are low, a supplement is often recommended.
  • Exercise is another important factor in maintaining strong bones. Weight-bearing, resistance and balance exercises are the most effective forms of exercise for this condition. If someone has osteoporosis consulting a health professional such as a physiotherapist is recommended before commencing an exercise plan. (6)

Prevention of an initial fracture is the best possible outcome for someone with Osteoporosis.  If you want to know more about Osteoporosis or have concerns you may be at risk, speak with a health professional such as your local Pharmacist or GP.

More information can also be found on the Healthy Bones Australia website.

Author: Bec Rogers, Chief Pharmacist National Pharmacies.

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References

1. Healthy Bones Australia. [Online] [Cited: 17 September 2024.] https://healthybonesaustralia.org.au/your-bone-health/about-osteoporosis/.

2. AIHW Osteoporosis and minimal trauma fractures. [Online] [Cited: 17 September 2024.] https://www.aihw.gov.au/reports/chronic-musculoskeletal-conditions/osteoporosis#description.

3. Osteoporosis risk factors. [Online] [Cited: 17 September 2024.] https://web.archive.org/web/20200815065303/https://osteoporosis.org.au.tmp.anchor.net.au/risk-factors.

4. Osteoporosis diagnosis. [Online] [Cited: 17 September 2024.] https://healthybonesaustralia.org.au/osteoporosis-you/diagnosis/.

5. Osteoporosis treatment. [Online] [Cited: 17 September 2024.] https://healthybonesaustralia.org.au/osteoporosis-you/treatment/.

6. Healthy Bones Australia consumer guide. [Online] [Cited: 17 September 2024.] https://healthybonesaustralia.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/hba-consumer-guide-22-07-24.pdf.