DEAR readers, our column is focused on Senzens- a term of endearment coined by your columnist- who is extending a warm Congratulations to the Outstanding Senior Citizens Community Service Awardees, especially to Maam Nellie Kabluyen of FBASECA, who through the years, typhoons, storms and glorious sunshine, has extended a devoted conscientious care and concern for the welfare of our elderlies.
Thus, the discussion is centered on one of the most common ailments of our young-once, osteoporosis. And probably, it is high time to correct a widely-held misconception about this bone disorder. Osteoporosis is NOT just a woman’s disease. Recent statistics show that more than 205 or more than two million people with osteoporosis are men. A man older than 50 is more likely to break a bone due to osteoporosis than he is to get prostate cancer.
One out of every two women over age 50 will suffer an osteoporosis-related fracture in her lifetime. Menopause which is the cessation or stoppage of ovulation- usually between 48-52 years for most women- brings above significant changes in the health status of women. With 90 percent of estrogen secretion gone, osteoporosis is the most immediate clinical concern. Estrogen, the primary female sex hormone produced by the ovaries, is a major participant in maintaining the strong solidity and strength of women’s bone, thus when the process of osteoporosis sets in. the holes within the bones become bigger, making the bones porous, fragile and more likely to break.
Osteoporosis related fractures can result in significant pain, loss of height ( Dowager’s hump) and may affect the woman’s ADL- activity of daily living- like ability to dree themselves, stand up and even walk. A woman’s chance of suffering from an osteoporosis-related fracture- wrist, spine or vertebral column and pelvic bones- is greater than her risk of cervical, uterine and breast cancer combined.
Doctors, especially OB-Gyne, orthopedic experts and endocrinologists are one in saying than prevention is the key to avoid or at least minimize the risk of osteoporosis during adulthood. Building strong bones especially before the age of 30 can be the best defense against this ageing-related disease. The earlier these measures are begun, the more effective the results. Thus, if you suspect you’re at risk for osteoporosis, get tested. There are free scheduled bone density test-DEXA- in your friendly drugstore or conducted by civic organizations, thus, you would know whether your skeletal system is still normal, stable and strong or you have osteopenia- weak bones or already the much-dreaded osteoporosis- the diagnosis would determine how aggressive the management would be. Do not underestimate the benefits of exercise- but do low impact activity like brisk walking and aerobic dancing like zumba.
Lifestyle modification includes cessation of smoking, avoidance of excessive alcohol – drink in moderation drinks allowed by your family physician, and limit coffee intake, say 2 cups per day. Eat right. Get your daily recommended amounts of 1000-1500 mg calcium and 400 I.U. vitamin D3 every day. For those who can take milk, 2-3 glasses daily- 30% of Filipinos have lactose intolerance- and remember that the winged beans is a very rich source of elemental calcium. Get your Vitamin D2 from a natural source- the sun during early morning hours. And don’t forget. There is always your family physician to answer your questions. Cheers!