‘O
STEOPOROSIS is a condition in which bones lose their strength and are more likely to break, usually following a minor bump or fall,” says Sarah Leyland, Osteoporosis Nurse Consultant at the National Osteoporosis Society (nos.org.uk).
“It can cause painful and debilitating broken bones in various parts of the body, but the wrists, hips and spine are the most commonly affected sites.”
She explains that, just like muscle, bone is a living, growing tissue that is continually broken down and rebuilt in a process known as “bone remodelling”.
During childhood and adolescence, bone is laid down faster than it is lost, so our bones become increasingly dense until the age of 18-25, when peak bone mass is achieved.
After this point, bones undergo a constant process of renewal, whereby worn-out bone is removed and replaced by new tissue. If you lose more than you replace, they slowly become weaker, which can lead to osteoporosis – thinner, fragile bones.
WHY IS IT A KILLER?
“WE KNOW that people who fracture easily live shorter lives,” says Sarah. “In particular, when people suffer hip fractures, they are much less likely to recover. It’s not the actual fracture that kills them, it’s the fact they become more prone to other problems when they’re immobile, such as urinary tract infections, chest infections, blood clots and just being less well in general.”
Take note if you’re aware you – or a loved one
– are getting shorter, she adds. “A loss of height is a red flag for multiple spinal fractures, as the bones of the spinal column become weakened and compressed. This impacts on quality of life, mobility and increasing frailness.”
RISK FACTORS
■ As you get older, bones become more fragile and are