Osteoporosis UPSC NOTE

Osteoporosis is a condition that weakens the bones, making them more prone to fractures.
It is often called a "silent disease" because it has no symptoms until a bone breaks.
Osteoporosis is most common in older women, but it can also occur in men and in younger people.

Factors that can increase the risk of osteoporosis, Age

Medical conditions, such as rheumatoid arthritis and thyroid disease
medications, such as corticosteroids and diuretics
Lifestyle factors, such as smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and lack of exercise

World Osteoporosis Day is celebrated on October 20th each year to raise awareness of osteoporosis and its prevention.

Osteoporosis Care

Lack of awareness: Many people are not aware of the signs and symptoms of osteoporosis, and they may not realize that they are at risk.

Symptoms are often vague: Osteoporosis often has no symptoms until a bone fracture occurs.
Bone density testing: Bone density testing is the most accurate way to diagnose osteoporosis, but it is not routinely performed in most healthcare settings.
Osteoporosis in women: More common in women than in men, but it can also affect men. However, osteoporosis is often seen as a women's disease.
Lack of funding: Research and treatment receive less funding than other chronic diseases, such as cancer and heart disease.

Challenges in addressing the condition in India

India has a large and growing population of people at risk of osteoporosis.
Osteoporosis is often underdiagnosed and undertreated in India due to a lack of awareness among the public and healthcare professionals.
Those living in rural areas, have limited access to healthcare. This can make it difficult for people to get diagnosed and treated for osteoporosis.
The cost of osteoporosis treatment can be high, especially for expensive medications
Not a priority for the Indian government, and there are few policies or programs in place to address the condition