Title: Unveiling Osteoporosis: Causes, Prevention, and Treatment
Meta Description:
Discover the impact of osteoporosis on five million Italians, with 75% of fractures being osteoporosis-related. Learn about prevention and treatment from Prof. Giovanni Passeri of the University of Parma.
Article:
Osteoporosis is a pressing health concern in Italy, affecting approximately five million people, with over four million being women. A leading cause of fragility fractures, the disease has a significant impact on quality of life, with a 75% share of bone fractures being of osteoporotic origin. We delve into this growing challenge with Giovanni Passeri, Associate Professor of Internal Medicine and Director of the Metabolic Osteopathies Center at the University of Parma.
**Understanding Osteoporosis**
Osteoporosis is a systemic bone disease characterized by reduced bone mineral density (BMD) and deterioration of bone microarchitecture, leading to increased bone fragility and fracture risk. BMD is measured via img src=”https://www.gazzettadiparma.it/upload/2024_12_18/DOTTORE_OSSA-1734511300142.jpg” alt=”” width=”251″ height=”391″/> (Dual Energy X-ray Absorptiometry or DEXA) scans, but BMD alone doesn’t define osteoporosis. A more holistic approach, considering other risk factors, is essential.
**Risk Factors and Prevention**
The risk of osteoporosis increases with age and family history. For women, early menopause (before 45) or late menstruation (after 15) are additional risk factors. Lifestyle plays a crucial role: smoking, low calcium intake, and inadequate physical activity heighten risks. A balanced diet rich in calcium, particularly from dairy products and beverages, can help prevent osteoporosis. Regular exercise, especially for women above 65, and adequate vitamin D levels are also vital.
**Treating Osteoporosis**
Treatment falls into two categories: those that prevent excess bone loss (anti-resorptives) and those that stimulate bone formation (anabolic agents). Anti-resorptives include bisphosphonates and selective estrogen receptor modulators (SERMs), while anabolic agents include Teriparatide and Romosozumab. Significant fracture risk may necessitate combination therapies.
**Early Detection and Diagnosis**
Early identification is key in managing osteoporosis. Although guidelines recommend DEXA scans for women over 65, individual risk assessment should determine eligibility, ideally around the time of menopause. Regular follow-ups with healthcare providers can aid in monitoring and managing osteoporosis.
**The Impact of Osteoporosis**
Osteoporotic fractures disproportionately affect the wrist, spine, and hip. Hip fractures, in particular, bring significant morbidity and mortality risks. Early intervention and adherence to treatment regimens can reduce fracture risk and improve quality of life.
Giovanni Passeri, Associate Professor of Internal Medicine and Director of the Metabolic Osteopathies Center at the University of Parma, emphasizes the importance of personalized medicine, tailoring preventive measures and treatments to individual risk profiles.
