As the proverb goes, prevention is better than cure. It is essential to be careful about their overall health from their early age. Cautiousness alone helps prevent people from developing serious illnesses. Osteoporosis is one of the serious health problems. It affects men and women of all races but elderly people who are past menopause are at higher risk than others. Men above 70 years of age are also vulnerable to this illness. It causes bones to become so brittle that a fall or even mild stresses can lead them to fracture. Those suffering from this illness are likely to get their bones cracked while bending over or coughing. Researches show that osteoporosis-related fractures most commonly take place in the hip, wrist or spine. Bone is living tissue that is constantly being broken down and replaced. Osteoporosis occurs when the creation of new bone does not keep up with the loss of the old one. It is a condition characterised by low bone mass and loss of bone tissue that may lead to weak and fragile bones. Studies suggest that one in two women above the age of 50 suffer from some form of osteoporosis.

People are required to take medications, healthy diet and do weight-bearing exercise. Such measures can help them prevent their bone loss or strengthen their already weak bones. As per a news report published in this daily on Wednesday, many people have suffered from osteoporosis-related problems in the Kathmandu Valley as well. Its main symptoms include joint and back pains caused by a fractured or collapsed vertebra, loss of height over time and a stooped posture. Another symptom is that their bones break much more easily than expected. They also experience a severe pain in their knees and lower back. They can hardly stand without support. This just indicates a difficult situation of many people suffering from this problem. Experts say the women at the menopause stage have lower oestrogen levels which increases their risk for osteoporosis. They say that the disease becomes acute for women because of lack of oestrogen along with other age-related changes in hormone levels and endocrine functions, and the inactive lifestyle at old age.

The treatment system of the disease is mainly focussed on slowing down or stopping mineral loss and increasing bone density. Mineral supplements and therapy are regarded as the best options for its treatment. Patients may find certain physiotherapies as an easy and cheap way to build bone density and relieve the pain. When they go for therapies, they do not require much medication or special machinery. They can do it at home. They, however, will have to change their lifestyle. They can do sit-ups or other exercises that require muscles to pull on bones. Walking or jogging a few kilometres every day or riding a bicycle can help build bone density. They, however, are suggested consulting a doctor or a professional therapist before starting any exercises. Patients are recommended to take Calcium and Vitamin D supplements to boost their intake of such minerals. It is necessary for the government to create public awareness about osteoporosis and introduce facilities and services at health institutions throughout the nation.