By Dr Surendra Kamath

June 12: Bone is living tissue that is constantly being broken down and replaced. Osteoporosis occurs when the creation of new bone doesn't keep up with the loss of old bone.

Osteoporosis is a skeletal disorder characterized by low bone mass, increased bone fragility, and susceptibility to fracture. Approximately one in two women and one in eight men over age 50 will have an osteoporosis-related fracture in their lifetime, and these fractures can be a burden for individual and society.

A number of changeable risk factors which can increase the likelihood of developing osteoporosis including Smoking, excessive alcohol consumption and lack of physical activity

Heavy smoking has long been associated with greater risk for osteoporosis with higher incidence of bone fractures, lower bone density, and a dramatic decrease in the mineralization of bones in the hip, hand, forearm, and heel; decreased bone healing and a decrease in new bone formation. The impact of tobacco smoke may be on bone-building cells, hormonal balance, and bone blood supply.

chronic heavy alcohol consumption, particularly during adolescence and young adulthood, can dramatically affect bone health and may increase the risk of developing osteoporosis later. Alcohol can interfere with bone remodeling, impair calcium absorption, and potentially increase the risk of falls and fractures

Major determinant of whether a woman develops osteoporosis depends on her peak bone mass and her rate of bone loss. Patients who exercised showed an improvement in bone mineral density by 1 percent over time and by 2 to 3 percent above no exercising control subjects. Weight-bearing exercises, which put stress on bones, are important for maintaining bone density and strength. Lack of exercise can also lead to a decline in muscle strength and balance, increasing the risk of falls and fractures.

Dr Surendra Kamath, consultant - orthopedics, KMC Hospital Mangaluru