National Healthy bone week is 1 – 7 August.

Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis, or porous bone is a disease in which the amount of calcium present in the bones reduces over time and the bones loses density (causing thinning of the bones).  The bones become so weak that even a slight fall can cause a fracture.  While some bone thinning is normal as we get older, osteoporosis is not inevitable.  A special bone density test can detect osteoporosis.  People should check to see if they are at risk and talk to a doctor.

Bones mostly commonly fractured include the hip, wrist, spine and pelvis.  A fracture maybe the first sign of the disease.

Risk factors

• Genetic – other family members with Osteoporosis.
• A thin or small build as the skeleton is smaller to start with. 
• European or Asian 
• General – Low calcium intake
• Little or no weight bearing exercise such as walking
• Smoking
• Excessive alcohol intake
• Excessive salt intake
• Excessive phosphate intake without calcium - eg. Cola based soft drinks
• Excessive animal protein intake
• Excessive caffeine intake

For Women early menopause, no children or prolonged breast-feeding can add to the risk.

For men low levels of the male hormone – testosterone, adds to the risk.

Preventative factors

• Increase dairy intake as calcium helps slow bone loss. 
• Adequate Vitamin D formed in the skin from exposure to sunlight and present in milk, fish oil, yeast and cereals, can help increase calcium absorption.
• Talk to your doctor about HRT as this may help reduce bone loss.
• Be active at all stages of your life to build strong bones.
• Take measures to prevent falls
• Quit smoking.

QHS is able to offer Bone Density testing in the workplace.