Understanding Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis is a common bone disease characterized by decreased bone density and disruption of bone tissue microstructure, resulting in brittle bones and an increased risk of fractures. As we age, especially in postmenopausal women, the rate of bone loss accelerates as bone loss becomes more pronounced due to decreased estrogen levels. According to the Hong Kong Health Bureau, about 30% of women over the age of 50 have osteoporosis, compared to about 20% of men.

Osteoporosis symptoms are usually inconspicuous, and many patients do not notice the problem until a fracture occurs. Common fracture sites include the spine, hip, and wrist. Vertebral fractures can cause height loss, hunched back, and even chronic pain. Hip fractures can have a serious impact on mobility and even increase mortality. Other risk factors include family history, low body weight, long-term steroid use, smoking, and excessive alcohol consumption.

Why do you need to do it?

Early detection of osteoporosis is key to fracture prevention. Through osteoporosis testing, bone density can be assessed and appropriate measures can be taken in the early stages of bone loss. The Hong Kong Hospital Authority recommends that high-risk groups, especially women aged 65 and above and men over 70, or patients with a history of fractures or long-term steroid use, undergo regular check-ups.

Preventing fractures not only improves quality of life but also reduces the healthcare burden. According to the Hong Kong Census and Statistics Bureau, the average hospital stay for hip fracture patients is 14 days, and about 20% of patients die within one year. Therefore, early diagnosis and treatment are essential to reduce these risks.

Recommended age for osteoporosis testing: based on risk assessment

Screening for osteoporosis is generally recommended for women over 65 years of age and men over 70 years of age. However, you need to check in advance if there are any of the following special circumstances:

骨質疏鬆檢查

• History of fractures after age 50
• Long-term use of steroids (e.g., prednisone) for more than 3 months
• Underweight (BMI less than 18.5)
• Family history of osteoporosis or fracture

The Hong Kong Osteoporosis Foundation pointed out that women over 40 years old should also consider early screening if they have early menopause (under 45 years old).

Introduction to osteoporosis testing methods

The most commonly used method to detect osteoporosis is dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (which accurately measures bone density in the spine and hip joints, the examination process is painless, and the radiation dose is very low. The test usually takes only 10-15 minutes, and the results are expressed by T and Z values.

Another method is peripheral bone densitometry, which usually measures bone density in the wrist or heel. This method is more convenient but less accurate and suitable for initial screening.

How to interpret an osteoporosis test report?

The T-value of the osteoporosis test report shows the comparison with the bone density of healthy young adults, and the Z-value shows the comparison with people of the same age and gender. The following is an interpretation of the T-value:

Z-values are primarily used to assess bone density in young people and children, and Z-values below -2.0 may indicate other underlying health problems.

Prevention and treatment of osteoporosis

Prevention of osteoporosis should start with diet, exercise, and lifestyle. When it comes to diet, it is recommended to get enough calcium (1000-1200 mg per day) and vitamin D (800-1000 IU per day). Foods rich in calcium include dairy products, dark green vegetables, and tofu.

When it comes to exercise, weight-bearing exercises (e.g., walking, running) and resistance training (e.g., weightlifting) can help build bone density. In addition, avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption can also reduce the risk of bone loss.

If you have been diagnosed with osteoporosis, your doctor may prescribe medications such as bisphosphonates, selective estrogen receptor modulators (SERMs), and parathyroxine analogues. These medications are effective in slowing bone loss and promoting bone production.

Actively face osteoporosis and enjoy a healthy life

Osteoporosis is common but can be managed effectively with early detection and proper management. Regular osteoporosis testing, especially in high-risk groups, is an important step in preventing fractures. Regardless of age, you should pay attention to your bone health and start with diet, exercise, and lifestyle habits to reduce the risk of osteoporosis and enjoy a healthy life.

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