Media Release

Mangalore, Aug 12: Osteoporosis is a disease of the bones that leads to an increased risk of fracture.  It affects 200 million women worldwide.  One third of women aged 60 to 70 and two third of women aged 80 or older suffer from osteoporosis.  Approximately 30% of women over the age of 50 have one or more vertebral fractures.  Osteoporotic hip fractures are the most devastating ones, associated with high mortality rate.
 
In osteoporosis, the bone mineral density (BMD) is reduced, bone strength is significantly reduced and the bones are prone for fracture even with trivial trauma.  Osteoporosis is an age related metabolic disease that primarily affects women and causes bone demineralization which results in fractures.  Early identification of risk factors for osteoporosis and development of prevention programs is needed to halt the increasing incidence of the disease.

The osteoporosis camp will be held at A J Hospital & Research Centre from August 16 to September 14.  The camp participants will be offered registration and consultation free.  Bone Mineral Density (Dexa) Scan of Spine & Hip at 50% discount, i.e., at Rs 800 against the actual cost of Rs 1600.
 
Osteoporosis commonly affects postmenopausal women, but men are not spared. Other conditions like hyperthyroidism, hypogonadism and long term steroid therapy also increase the risk of osteoporosis.  Vitamin D deficiency is one of the most common causes of osteoporosis.

Osteoporosis can be estimated by measuring bone mineral density. Bone mineral density is measured by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) scan.
 
By detecting osteoporosis early, treatment for the same can be started with calcium, vitamin D, bone strengthening/ forming agents and anti resorptive drugs. 

Those interested in participating in the camp are required to register their names by calling 0824 2225533 extn.252 between 9 am and 5 pm.