Daily Current Affairs : 27-October-2023

Osteoporosis, a debilitating bone disease characterized by decreased bone mass and density, poses a significant threat to the health of millions. While it often remains unnoticed until a bone is fractured, its prevalence in India demands urgent attention.

Understanding Osteoporosis:
  • Osteoporosis weakens bones, increasing the risk of fractures, especially in postmenopausal women and older men.
  • Fractures commonly occur in hip bones, spine vertebrae, and wrists, affecting mobility and overall well-being.
Causes and Risk Factors:
  • Sex and Age: Women, especially postmenopausal, are more susceptible due to hormonal changes. Aging accelerates bone loss.
  • Body Size and Race: Slender individuals, especially white and Asian women, face higher risks.
  • Genetics and Hormonal Imbalances: Family history and low hormone levels contribute.
  • Diet and Medications: Low calcium, vitamin D intake, and certain medications amplify risks.
  • Lifestyle Factors: Lack of physical activity and prolonged inactivity increase bone loss rates.
The Alarming Indian Scenario:
  • High Mortality Rates: India ranks highest globally in osteoporosis-related deaths/disabilities, highlighting its severity.
  • Micronutrient Deficiencies: Indian women’s poor diets worsen the situation, escalating susceptibility.
  • Limited Access to Diagnostic Tools: Scarce availability of DEXA machines (gold standard for osteoporosis diagnosis) hampers early detection.
  • Need for Suspicion in Patient Assessment: Due to deficiencies and sedentary lifestyles, healthcare providers must be vigilant in suspecting osteoporosis.
Silent Epidemic: Osteoporosis Challenges in India: What You Should Know
Courtesy:Spine and Pain Clinics of North America
Important Points:

Key Points on Osteoporosis in India:

  • Osteoporosis is a bone disease characterized by decreased bone mass and density, increasing the risk of fractures, especially in postmenopausal women and older men.
  • Fractures typically occur in hip bones, spine vertebrae, and wrists, leading to mobility issues and reduced well-being.

Causes and Risk Factors:

  • Women, particularly postmenopausal, are more vulnerable to osteoporosis due to hormonal changes, and aging accelerates bone loss.
  • Slender individuals, especially white and Asian women, face higher risks.
  • Family history and low hormone levels can contribute to osteoporosis.
  • Low calcium and vitamin D intake, along with certain medications, amplify risks.
  • Lack of physical activity and prolonged inactivity increase the rate of bone loss.

The Alarming Indian Scenario:

  • India ranks highest globally in osteoporosis-related deaths/disabilities.
  • Micronutrient deficiencies in Indian women worsen the situation and increase susceptibility.
  • Limited access to DEXA machines, the gold standard for osteoporosis diagnosis, hampers early detection.
  • Healthcare providers need to be vigilant in suspecting osteoporosis due to deficiencies and sedentary lifestyles.
Why In News

Although large-scale studies on osteoporosis in India are lacking, projected data reveals that approximately 46 million women in the country are currently affected by post-menopausal osteoporosis, which represents just one form of this condition. It is crucial for further research efforts to encompass various types of osteoporosis, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of this widespread health concern in the Indian population.

MCQs about Osteoporosis Challenges in India

  1. What is the primary cause of osteoporosis in postmenopausal women and older men?
    A. Lack of physical activity
    B. Genetic factors
    C. Hormonal changes and aging
    D. Low calcium intake
    Correct Answer: C. Hormonal changes and aging
    Explanation: Osteoporosis primarily affects postmenopausal women and older men due to hormonal changes, particularly a decrease in estrogen levels in women during menopause and natural bone loss that occurs with aging.
  2. Which of the following bones is most susceptible to fractures in individuals with osteoporosis?
    A. Arm bones
    B. Hip bones
    C. Skull bones
    D. Rib bones
    Correct Answer: B. Hip bones
    Explanation: Individuals with osteoporosis are at a higher risk of fractures in weight-bearing bones, with hip bones being one of the most commonly affected. Fractures in hip bones can severely impact mobility and overall quality of life.
  3. What factor significantly increases the risk of osteoporosis in women?
    A. High body mass index
    B. Regular exercise routine
    C. Postmenopausal hormonal changes
    D. Adequate calcium intake
    Correct Answer: C. Postmenopausal hormonal changes
    Explanation: Postmenopausal hormonal changes, specifically the decrease in estrogen levels, significantly increase the risk of osteoporosis in women. Estrogen plays a crucial role in maintaining bone density.
  4. Why is osteoporosis often referred to as a “silent disease”?
    A. It affects older adults
    B. It doesn’t cause pain or noticeable symptoms until a fracture occurs
    C. It primarily affects women
    D. It is a hereditary condition
    Correct Answer: B. It doesn’t cause pain or noticeable symptoms until a fracture occurs
    Explanation: Osteoporosis is often asymptomatic until a bone is fractured. This lack of noticeable symptoms makes it a “silent disease,” highlighting the importance of early detection and preventive measures.

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