World Osteoporosis Awareness Day

Theme for this year’s awareness day is “Step Up for Bone Health”.

So let’s start with the history of why World Osteoporosis awareness day is on 20th of October then let us understand what Osteoporosis is. I know, many of our readers do not like history but just a quick two-line reader for you. 

World Osteoporosis Day was initially launched on 20th of October 1996 by the United Kingdom’s National Osteoporosis Society and later it was supported by the European Commission. It is very interesting to note that prior to the year 1994, Osteoporosis was not even considered as a major disease. In the year 1998, two prominent organizations made sure to educate public about osteoporosis and together formed International Osteoporosis Foundation

What is Osteoporosis?

Osteoporosis is a condition in which there is a decrease in density of bone which decreases the strength of the bone and it results in fragile bones. The condition weakens your bones and results in frequent fractures.  Bone is composed of collagen, calcium and protein which gives it its strength. People with osteoporosis have lesser components of these because of which they are at a high risk of fracture. 

Let us now understand what are the common symptoms of Osteoporosis- 

• Pain in your lower back
• Pain in your neck region
• Loss of height over a period of time
• You might also observe stooped or bent posture
• Fracture of hip bones or spine after a minor fall

Who are at a risk of developing Osteoporosis:

• People who are at an old age above 50 years of age
• Men who have low testosterone and women who have low estrogen
• Lifestyle habits such as smoking and consumption of alcohol
• People who have less physical activity
• Family history of osteoporosis

Prevention is better than cure!!

Having strong bones is one of the preventative measures for a person from developing Osteoporosis. How can one have strong bones? Here are a few tips that you may want to consider:

1. Try and get a good amount of Calcium for your body.
   Women at the age of 50 years and below must include 1000mg of calcium supplementation and women above the age of 50 years must include 1200mg calcium supplementation on a daily basis. Try consulting your nutritionist prior to starting the supplementation. 
2. Vitamin D helps our body to absorb calcium which helps to strengthen our bones.
   When our skin gets exposed to sunlight, our liver and kidneys help make Vitamin D. Consult your doctor prior to starting your supplementation.
3. Exercise on a daily basis.
   Exercise helps us stimulate the cells responsible for building bones. In order to promote bone health, try doing weight-bearing exercises at least 3-4 times a week. Ask your trainer to
4. incorporate more aerobic exercises,
   Include more walking, running, tennis and hiking.  Resistance exercises use an opposing force,which will strengthen your muscles and build bone. Having strong muscles and a good balance may also help you avoid falls and minimize your injury.
   Incorporate more food rich in Vitamin D such as milk, mushroom, liver, egg yolk, cereals, cheese, salmon, and tuna.
5. Do a lifestyle modification
   By quitting smoking, alcohol consumption and maintain your BMI

Routine tests:

• Yearly once get your vitamin D levels checked
• DEXA scan OR X-ray
   

Tests offered at MapmyGenome:

Mapmygenome’s Genomepatri and MyFitGene is a preventative genomic testing that helps you understand if you’re at risk for developing Osteoporosis. If there is a family history of Osteoporosis we also offer Whole exome sequencing
We also offer Genetic counseling service to help you understand the condition and provide you with the right choice of testing.

To get more info about Genomepatri,  call us at 1800-102-4595 or Whatsapp us at 8688310052.