What is Osteoporosis?
Osteoporosis is a condition where bones become weak and brittle, making them more susceptible to fractures. Often called the “silent disease,” it progresses without symptoms until a fracture occurs. In India, over 50 million people are affected by osteoporosis. At Dashvanth Healthcare Delhi, we provide comprehensive osteoporosis screening and management.
Who is at Risk?
- Post-menopausal women (estrogen decline)
- Men over 70
- People with family history of osteoporosis
- Those with low body weight
- Smokers and excessive alcohol drinkers
- People on long-term steroids
- Those with vitamin D deficiency (very common in Delhi)
Diagnosis
DEXA (Dual-Energy X-ray Absorptiometry) scan measures bone mineral density. T-score assessment: Normal (>-1), Osteopenia (-1 to -2.5), Osteoporosis (< -2.5). Blood tests for calcium, vitamin D, and related hormones.
Prevention Strategies
- Calcium intake: 1000–1200 mg/day (dairy, leafy greens)
- Vitamin D: 600–800 IU/day (sunlight, supplements)
- Weight-bearing exercise: Walking, dancing, stair climbing
- Resistance training: Builds bone density
- Avoid smoking and excessive alcohol
- Fall prevention: Home modifications, balance training
Treatment
Supplements
- Calcium and Vitamin D supplements
Medications
- Bisphosphonates: (alendronate, risedronate) – first-line treatment
- Denosumab: Injection every 6 months
- Hormone Replacement Therapy: For post-menopausal women
- Teriparatide: For severe osteoporosis
Fracture Management
Vertebral compression fractures may be treated with vertebroplasty or kyphoplasty – minimally invasive procedures that stabilise fractures with bone cement.
Osteoporosis screening and treatment at Dashvanth Healthcare Delhi: 011-41670042
