World Osteoporosis Day 2020: What Postmenopausal Women Should Know About Their Bones

Osteoporosis affects 200 million women worldwide, but it is of increasing concern to society. By the age of 70, one in five women will have osteoporosis. (Source: Getty / Sinkstock)

When we reach the menopause, each body reacts differently. But mainly, the signs may be the same for all women. It is during this transition that she must take care of and understand her body like never before to prevent further health problems.

The World Health Organization (WHO) defines menopause as “amenorrhea (no menstruation) for at least 12 consecutive months, not due to physiological or pathological causes.” The average age of menopause is 45 to 50 years. Also, if life expectancy is extended to more than 75 years, most women will spend more than one-third of their lives beyond menopause, believes Dr. Sonal Kumtah, an obstetrics and gynecology consultant at Fortis Hospital Mulund. I am.

Menopause is caused by the depletion of eggs from the ovaries. This is the cause of several short-term symptoms, including long-term consequences such as burning, night sweats, vaginal dryness, loss of interest in sexuality, mood swings, and an increased risk of heart disease and postmenopausal osteoporosis. Affects the hormone estrogen. The doctor explains.

Osteoporosis affects 200 million women worldwide, but there is growing interest in society. By the age of 70, one in five women will have osteoporosis.

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what is that?

Osteoporosis is a skeletal disorder that results from the weakening and loss of bone structure. It leads to increased bone fragility and risk of fractures. For women under the age of 30, bone loss is equivalent to new bone formation, resulting in recovery of bone density (BMD).

However, in postmenopausal women, estrogen deficiency reduces the formation of new bone, causing weak, brittle, and porous bone. BMD has also decreased significantly. Estrogen also plays an important role in increasing calcium absorption. Low calcium absorption can cause brittle bones. Common sites for osteoporotic fractures are the wrists, spine, and hip bones of older women. Often, these fractures cause loss of mobility, poor quality of life, and other complications such as pneumonia, heart and thrombotic events, and ultimately death, Dr. Kumta warns. I have.

“It’s a silent killer because it can occur without symptoms. It’s important that all postmenopausal women take a BMD test using a DEXA or CT scan and keep checking it. Your doctor or family doctor can advise you on this test at your annual health checkup. A “T” score between -1 and -2.5 indicates low bone mass and a “T” below -2.5. The score indicates osteoporosis. It can cause bone pain, stature, low back pain, and leaning forward, “she said, adding that women are at greater risk of developing osteoporosis than men.

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“Osteoporosis is also hereditary. If your parents or grandparents have an osteoporotic fracture, you are more likely to have it. Women taking medications such as steroids or cancer The risk is also high. “

Prevention and treatment

According to doctors, women need to establish exercise programs that include weight-bearing exercises such as walking, jogging, and dancing (muscles work against gravity). Proper sun exposure and intake of calcium-rich foods such as dairy products and fish. Green leafy vegetables, nuts, etc. — can help. Limiting alcohol consumption and avoiding smoking can also prove beneficial.

“Several drugs are available, including calcium, vitamin D, bisphosphonates, SERMS (selective estrogen receptor modulators), hormone replacement therapy, monoclonal antibodies, and new bone-forming drugs. Doctors before starting treatment. It’s best to consult with, “concludes Dr. Kumta.

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