Who can get osteoporosis

What is the Magnitude of the Problem?

The reality is staggering. One in two women and one in eight men over the age of 50 years will have an osteoporosis fracture in their lifetime.(The risk of fracture almost doubles with every decade past 50 years). The cost of treatment for this works out to 10-15 billion dollars. Half of these fractures are in the spine, about 20 per cent in the hip, 20 per cent in the wrist and rest elsewhere. Of those who have a hip fracture, 15-20 per cent die within one year and 50 per cent are unable to walk unassisted. 

Who is Likely to Get It?

You have more chances of developing osteoporosis if you possess any of the following associated features or risk factors:

· More than 50 years of age
· Physical inactivity
· Alcohol consumption
· Obesity
· Reduced bone mass
· Low blood levels of calcium
· Smoking
· Mental depression
· Intake of drugs like steroids or those for thyroid problems
· Low oestrogen levels ( in females)
· Excessive coffee consumption
· Family history of thin bones and fractures

What are the Types of Osteoporosis?

Osteoporosis is basically of two types : primary osteoporosis and secondary osteoporosis.

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