Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis is a bone disorder caused due to low bone mineral density (BMD), impaired bone mineralization and decreased bone strength leads to fracture of the bones. Osteoporosis is significant social and economic issues that affect people all over the world. Indeed, fragility fractures are linked to higher mortality, morbidity, and disability rates. The World Health Organisation (WHO) reports that osteoporosis affects 30% of postmenopausal women.

In India, Osteoporosis affects 61 million individuals and women make up 80% of them. This condition is often asymptomatic and remains undiagnosed until low-trauma fracture of the hip, spine, proximal humerus, pelvis, and/or wrist occurs leading to hospitalization.

Primary osteoporosis is an age-related condition and also occurs due to an imbalance in sex hormones. Secondary osteoporosis is caused due to underlying comorbidities or usage of certain medications.

For many years, calcium and vitamin D have been regarded as essential in the prevention and treatment of osteoporosis. It is recognized that a normal calcium balance together with a normal vitamin D status is vital for maintaining well-balanced bone metabolism.

The pharmacological management of osteoporosis's main aim is to slow the disease's progression and reduce the risk of fractures. Non-pharmacological management includes  lifestyle changes, such as prevention of falls/accidents, smoking cessation, and limit the intake of alcohol.

Pharmacological management involves the use of anti-resorptive agents (Bisphosphonates, Risedronate, Ibandronate), Hormone Replacement therapy (HRTs), parathyroid hormone, calcium and vitamin-D supplementation and biological medicines.

As osteoporosis results in fractures causing disability and mortality, it should be diagnosed and treated early to prevent the long term.