What Is Osteoporosis?

Osteoporosis is a silent disease and a worldwide problem. Osteoporosis causes bones to become weak and fragile, so they break easily, even as a result of a minor fall, a bump, a sneeze or a sudden movement. The loss of bone occurs silently and progressively. Often there are no symptoms until the first fracture occurs. Fractures caused by osteoporosis can be life threatening and a major cause of pain and long term disability.

The likelihood of these fractures occurring, particularly at the hip and spine, increases with age in both women and men. Vertebral fracture can result in serious consequences, including loss of height, intense back pain and deformity. A hip fracture often requires surgery and may result in loss of independence or death.

Am i in the high risk group?

Some are at higher risk than others.
• Early menopause before age 45
• Postmenopause
• Hysterectomy
• A previous non-violent fracture
• Family history
• Smoking
• Drinking too much alcohol
• Not exercising much / Immobility
• Diet that does not have enough calcium or Vitamin D
• Certain illnesses e.g. Rheumatoid Arthritis, Diabetes, Chronic Kidney Disease

How do i know if i have osteoporosis?

• The best way to diagnose osteoporosis is to carry out a Bone Mineral Density (BMD) test
• It is a painless and non-invasive test and usually takes less than 15 minutes
• It means needles or instruments will not be placed through the skin and body

Start protecting your bones

Your journey to stronger bones begins with:
• Eating a diet with adequate calcium and Vitamin D
• Doing regular weight-bearing exercise
• No Smoking
• Limit alcohol intake

Osteoporosis Screening Package

• Dexa Scan - Lumbar Spine & Hip
• Laboratory Test
   • Calcium serum
   • Albumin
   • Vitamin D measurement
   • Renal function test
• Specialist Consultation