World Osteoporosis Day 2024 is the perfect time to raise awareness about bone health, especially in India, where osteoporosis affects around 50 million people. Osteoporosis is a condition that makes bones weak and fragile, increasing the risk of fractures. Women, majorly after menopause, are at a higher risk, with 1 in 3 women over 50 likely to suffer from osteoporosis-related fractures in India. Men are also at risk, with 1 in 5 facing similar issues.
The theme for World Osteoporosis Day 2024, “Say No to Fragile Bones,” encourages people to understand the importance of strong bones through proper diet, regular exercise, and medical advice. Calcium and vitamin D are vital nutrients that can prevent bone loss. Activities like walking, yoga, and strength training can help maintain bone strength.
This day is a great opportunity to engage in awareness activities like health checkups, nutrition workshops, and fitness challenges. In this blog, we will focus on understanding this disease and learn how, by making simple changes in daily habits and spreading the word, we can help fight osteoporosis and build a stronger, healthier future for India’s population. Keep reading!
Table Of Contents
- What Is Osteoporosis?
- Why Is World Osteoporosis Day Celebrated?
- What Is The Theme/Slogan For Osteoporosis Day 2024?
- How Is World Osteoporosis Day Celebrated In India? World Osteoporosis Day Activities
- Expert’s Advice
- The Final Say
- FAQs
- References
What Is Osteoporosis?
Don't let osteoporosis catch you off guard. Be aware, be informed, and take action.
Osteoporosis refers to a systemic skeletal disease which is defined by a low bone mass and bone tissue microarchitecture degradation. This reduces bone strength, thereby making fractures much more probable than in unaffected bones.
It can develop silently for years, often without any symptoms, and individuals are unaware of the existence of the disease until a fracture occurs. The disease afflicts anybody, but it manifests more frequently in older adults, especially postmenopausal women.
Causes of Osteoporosis
Several factors contribute to the development of osteoporosis, including:
- Hormonal Changes: Hormonal changes, especially during menopause, cause the hormone that preserves bone density, estrogen, to drop.
- Age: As people age, bone resorption (the process of breaking down bone tissue) outpaces bone formation, leading to a decrease in bone density.
- Genetics: Having a family history of osteoporosis can elevate the risk for an individual.
- Nutrition: Malnutrition disease and insufficient consumption of calcium and vitamin D might result in weakened bones.
- Lifestyle Factors: Sedentary lifestyles, smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and certain medications can negatively impact bone health.
Symptoms Of Osteoporosis
Osteoporosis is commonly known as a "silent disease" because it usually shows no signs until a fracture happens. Frequent locations for fractures include the hip, spine, and wrist. There are situations where people might encounter:
- Pain in bones and joints (Try these knee exercises for arthritis pain relief)
- Fractures that occur with minimal trauma
- Loss of height
- Stooped posture (Check out these exercises to improve your posture)
- Back pain
How Is Osteoporosis Diagnosed?
- Bone Density Test (DXA): The primary method for diagnosing osteoporosis is measuring bone mineral density (BMD) at key sites like the spine and hip.
- X-rays: Used to identify existing fractures that may indicate osteoporosis; traditional X-rays cannot measure bone density.
- CT Scans: Body or spine CT scans can assess bone density and detect fractures.
- MRI: Magnetic resonance imaging may be utilised to evaluate vertebral fractures and other underlying conditions.
- FRAX® Score: A fracture risk assessment tool that estimates the probability of fractures based on clinical risk factors.
- Vertebral Fracture Assessment (VFA): A specialised X-ray technique to assess for vertebral fractures.
- Bone Turnover Markers: Biochemical tests that can provide additional information about bone metabolism but are not routinely used for diagnosis.
- Screening Recommendations: Generally recommended for women over 65 and men over 70 or younger individuals with risk factors or a history of fractures.
The best way to combat osteoporosis is by having a balanced diet enriched with calcium and vitamin D. Another important aspect is taking bone health supplements such as ToneOp Care’s Bone 360 tablets. These are specially formulated tablets containing calcium, vitamin D, zinc, magnesium and alfalfa, which together help in:
- Strengthening bones and muscles
- Improving musculoskeletal framework in the body
- Boosting bone development
- Alleviation of osteoporosis and arthritis symptoms.
You can buy it from ToneOp Care’s official website, Amazon, 1mg, and Flipkart.
Also Read: World Arthritis Day 2024: How Arthritis Affects Your Life? Understanding The Causes And Prevention
Why Is World Osteoporosis Day Celebrated?
When you have osteoporosis, your bones weaken and break more easily. The tricky part is that most people don’t even know they have it until they get a fracture. With osteoporosis, even a small fall or sudden movement can cause a broken bone. It becomes more common as we age, especially among the elderly, making it a top reason for fractures in older people.
Worldwide, about 1 in 3 women and 1 in 5 men over 50 will suffer from an osteoporosis-related fracture, which can lead to severe pain and long-term disability. Sadly, only 20% of those with osteoporosis get properly diagnosed and treated, mainly because of limited healthcare and low awareness.
Women are at higher risk, especially after menopause, when they can lose up to 20% of their bone density in just 5-7 years. That’s why it’s so important to take care of your bones early on. World Osteoporosis Day (WOD), observed on 20th October, helps spread the word about this condition, urging people to focus on prevention, early diagnosis, and action. Eating the correct meals and maintaining an active lifestyle can have a significant impact on maintaining strong bones and lowering the risk of osteoporosis.
What Is The Theme/Slogan For Osteoporosis Day 2024?
This year, 2024, the World Osteoporosis Day Theme is “Say no to fragile bones.” The theme aims to encourage people to value and protect their bones and raise awareness of the importance of prevention, diagnosis, and treatment.
The following messages will be addressed to people of all ages, patients, healthcare professionals and health authorities:
Our Bone Health Is Precious |
Having strong bones is essential for our overall health, ability to move, and freedom. Individuals of every age should prioritise their bone health by proactively addressing osteoporosis prevention through consuming a diet that promotes strong bones, engaging in weight-bearing exercises for osteoporosis, and refraining from harmful lifestyle habits such as smoking. |
Osteoporosis Matters |
Osteoporosis poses a significant risk to health and can have devastating outcomes. By identifying specific risk factors, focusing on bone health (similarly to how we prioritise cardiovascular health), requesting osteoporosis screening or testing when risk factors are present, and following any medication regimen given, we can close the gap in osteoporosis care, protecting our ability to move and be independent as we grow older. |
Make Bone Health A Healthcare Policy Priority |
Osteoporosis poses a serious threat to human health and the global economy, with up to 370 lakh fragility fractures occurring each year. Health officials need to make bone health a top priority by focusing on funding post-fracture care services. These services guarantee expert assessment and treatment for osteoporosis to prevent future and potentially dangerous fractures in all fracture patients aged 50+ who visit a hospital with a broken bone. |
How Is World Osteoporosis Day Celebrated In India? World Osteoporosis Day Activities
Nutrition, exercise, and early detection: the keys to osteoporosis prevention.
World Osteoporosis Day 2024 is here, and India is celebrating it with a lot of exciting activities focused on bone health and how to prevent osteoporosis. You’ll find public health campaigns, free bone density checkups at hospitals, workshops, and a buzz on social media too! Many healthcare organisations are spreading the message about getting early checkups, staying healthy, and learning about treatment options. Along with in-person events, there are also online campaigns and webinars to reach people all across India.
In India, osteoporosis awareness is vital due to rising cases, and healthcare professionals are emphasising the importance of calcium and vitamin D intake, regular exercise, and reducing unhealthy habits such as smoking and alcohol consumption.
The following activities can be done to observe World Osteoporosis Day 2024:
A) School Activities
- Bone Health Workshops: Imagine learning directly from healthcare professionals! These workshops will educate you about osteoporosis—its causes, and how to prevent it. It’s a great opportunity to ask questions and get informed.
- Bone Health Quiz: Test your knowledge with a fun quiz competition! Challenge your friends and see who knows the most about bone health and osteoporosis. It’s a great way to learn while having fun!
- Bone Health Poster Contest: Get creative! Create posters that highlight the importance of bone health and osteoporosis prevention. Your artwork could inspire others to take care of their bones!
B) Office Activities
- Osteoporosis Awareness Presentation: Invite a healthcare professional to share insights about osteoporosis. Learn about risk factors and prevention measures that can help keep you and your colleagues informed.
- Healthy Eating Workshops: Participate in workshops that focus on healthy eating habits supporting bone health. Discover delicious foods that are good for your bones!
- Bone-Strengthening Exercises: Take short breaks during the day to engage in quick bone-strengthening exercises. It’s a refreshing way to boost energy and promote health at work! Consider ToneOp Fit’s Home Workout Plan.
- Osteoporosis Awareness Campaign: Start an office campaign to raise awareness about osteoporosis. Share information, resources, and tips to promote bone health among your colleagues.
C) Community Activities
- Bone Health Walk or Run: Join a community walk or organise a marathon run that is dedicated to raise funds for osteoporosis research. It’s a fantastic way to get active while supporting a great cause!
- Bone Health Fair: Attend or help organise a fair featuring a booth with information about osteoporosis, bone health screenings, and healthy lifestyle tips. It’s a fun way to connect with others while learning!
- Community Workshops: Participate in workshops focused on osteoporosis prevention for the general public. Share knowledge and empower others in your community to prioritise their bone health.
- Media Outreach: Collaborate with local media outlets to spread the word about osteoporosis awareness. Share stories, facts, and tips that can reach a wider audience.
Expert’s Advice
To prevent and manage osteoporosis, make sure to focus on a diet high in calcium and vitamin D. This should consist of dairy products, leafy greens, fortified plant-based milk, and fish such as salmon for important nutrients. Make sure to get enough sunlight or take supplements if necessary to assist in calcium absorption with the help of vitamin D.
Include foods high in protein, like eggs, nuts, and legumes, to help maintain bone health. Reduce consumption of caffeine, alcohol, and salt to avoid affecting the absorption of calcium. Keep yourself well hydrated and ensure you keep a healthy body weight. Take regular walks or try resistance training apart from a health diet to support bone health.
Health Expert
Akshata Gandevikar
The Final Say
In conclusion, World Osteoporosis Day 2024 is a fantastic opportunity for all of us to learn about the importance of bone health. By understanding the theme "Say No to Fragile Bones," we can celebrate awareness and take part in fun activities that promote strong bones. Whether it’s through workshops at school, presentations at work, or community events, everyone can play a part in spreading the word. Remember, healthy bones are vital for a happy and active life, so let’s make sure we take care of them together!
FAQs
1. Where is osteoporosis most common in the world?
Osteoporosis is most common in older adults, especially in women over 50, with higher rates seen in white and Asian populations. It often leads to fractures in the hip, spine, and wrist.
2. Who is at risk of osteoporosis?
People at risk for osteoporosis include older adults, especially women after menopause, individuals with a family history of the disease, and those with low calcium or vitamin D intake. Other factors include smoking and excessive alcohol consumption.
3. Can a person get osteoporosis in their 20s?
Yes, a person can develop osteoporosis in their 20s, especially if they have risk factors like low calcium intake, lack of exercise, or certain medical conditions. It's important to build strong bones early to prevent future issues.
4. Can osteoporosis be reversed?
Osteoporosis cannot be completely reversed, but it can be managed, and its progression is slowed through medications, diet, and exercise. Building bone density is possible with the right lifestyle changes.
5. What exercises help prevent osteoporosis?
Weight-bearing exercises like walking, jogging, dancing, and climbing stairs are great for bone health. Strength training and balance exercises, such as yoga and tai chi, also help strengthen bones and prevent falls.
6. How do you wish for Osteoporosis Day?
You can wish for Osteoporosis Day by promoting awareness and encouraging people to take care of their bone health. Share information about prevention and treatment options with friends and family.
References
- https://www.pacehospital.com/world-osteoporosis-day-20-october
- https://www.careinsurance.com/blog/health-insurance-articles/understanding-world-osteoporosis-day
- https://www.osteoporosis.foundation/news/say-no-fragile-bones-world-osteoporosis-day-20240821-1110
- https://www.indiatimelines.com/event/world-osteoporosis-day-2024-focusing-on-strong-bones-for-a-healthier-future/
- https://daycelebrate.com/world-osteoporosis-day/
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