Osteoporosis means "porous bones".  Bones in our body are constantly being
reformed and remodelled.  Bones form faster than they break down in children
then the process slows down until we reach adulthood.  Gradually, we even
begin to lose bone.

Who Is At Risk?

1.   Women After Menopause -

     Osteoporosis is not a normal aging process.  It is a disease among older
     people. Women are at greater risk than men because they lose bone much
     faster than men. Estrogen protects bone lose.  After menopause,
     oestrogen levels in the body drop and bones are more susceptible to
     osteoporosis.

2.   Lifestyles -

     Exercise plays a very important role in keeping our bones healthy.
     Regular moderate exercise such as tennis, jogging, swimming and dancing
     prevent bone lose.

3.   Weight -

     Bone strengthen when they are used, so underweight and small-bone-framed
     individuals who place less demand on their bones are at a greater risk.

4.   Family History -

     You are more likely to develop osteoporosis if other women in your
     family have had it.  Fractured neck of femur (facture of thigh bone
     near the hip), colles's (which is facture of forearm bone near the
     wrist) fracture and collapsed fracture of lumber spine are the common
     sites of fracture in osteoporosis.

5.   Diet -

     Diary products, beans, seafood (including bones), nuts, seeds and
     dark green leafy vegetables are rich sources of calcium.  On an average,
     the daily requirement for adult is about 700mg and 500 for children.
     When we don't get enough calcium for our needs, the body goes to our
     bones.  Smoking, excessive alcohol and caffeine also increase risk of
     osteoporosis.

Prevention

Osteoporosis is a discouraging illness because it takes years to develop and
is very difficult to reverse once established.  We need calcium all through
our life.  With reduced ability to absorb calcium as one ages, intake
should increase in order to offset a negative calcium balance.  Some
professionals are now recommending 1000mg per day for post-menopausal
women.  If bones are not used they tend to become thinner.  Regular exercise
helps to keep our bones strong.

Treatment

The generally accepted method of treatment under medical supervision is
Estrogen Replacement Therapy (ERT) combined with increased calcium intake
and a regular exercise program.  Ask your doctor which combination and in
what amounts is best for you.