Myth #1 Osteoporosis is only an issue for older people
Myth #1 Osteoporosis is only an issue for older peopleFACT: Osteoporosis can occur at any age if the normal balance between the body’s processes of making bone and bone breakdown is affected by negative influences. Things that might increase the risk of osteoporosis include:
- Medical conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis or overactive thyroid
- Medications such as prednisolone
- Early or premature menopause
- Absent or irregular periods in young women over a long period
- Smoking
- Excessive alcohol intake
- Excessive exercise
- A history of an eating disorder, such as anorexia
STRATEGY: If you have any of the above risks talk to your doctor about your bone health. Osteoporosis is easy to diagnose with a simple bone density scan. Early intervention is crucial in young people with a bone density that is much lower than expected for their age.
Myth #2 Osteoporosis testing is costly and has risks because of radiation
FACT: Testing for osteoporosis usually involves a DEXA (or DXA) scan. This is a simple and quick procedure that is like having a regular x-ray. The cost is not excessive and will depend on which service provides the scan and the reason for having the scan. In Australia, Medicare covers the cost of bone density testing for some medical conditions (such as early menopause).
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There is a small amount of radiation involved but this is similar to that of regular x-rays. Usually, the lower back and hip are scanned and the density or thickness of the bones is measured. Your bone density is then compared to normal levels for your sex and age. An additional measurement compares your bone density to a level known as ‘peak bone mass’. This is thought to be between 25- 30 years of age when bones are at their strongest and thickest. When there is a significant difference in bone density between your bones and ‘peak bone mass’, osteoporosis is diagnosed.
STRATEGY: Don’t be put off having your bone density assessed due to concerns about cost or radiation. Osteoporosis can be associated with significant illness if left undiagnosed and untreated and it is essential to intervene as early as possible if bones have lost a significant amount of density. If your doctor has recommended you have a bone density scan they will usually do this as they have assessed you to be at risk of lowered bone density or osteoporosis.
Myth #3 You will know if you have osteoporosis because you will feel your bones losing strength and you will feel pain
FACT: Osteoporosis is usually a ‘silent’ disease, which means that bones become thinner and weaker over a long period, without symptoms. Osteoporosis will only lead to pain if a fracture has occurred.
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STRATEGY: Talk to your doctor about your risk factors for osteoporosis, and ask them if you need to have your bone density measured. A family history of osteoporosis and fracture, particularly hip fracture in parents, means that an individual is at high risk of developing osteoporosis. There are several other risk factors for osteoporosis, and a thorough assessment by a health professional is the best way to know if you need testing for osteoporosis.
Myth #4 Taking extra calcium supplements can help prevent osteoporosis
FACT: There is currently a lot of debate about calcium and bone health. Some researchers believe that calcium supplements do little to prevent osteoporosis and fractures, and others believe that calcium in excessive amounts may put people at extra risk of developing heart disease. What we do know is that calcium is extremely important for bones, and the best source of calcium is from our diet. If a supplement is required, discuss how much you need with your doctor, in most cases, only one tablet or capsule per day will be required.
STRATEGY: Investigate how much calcium your diet contains by looking at a “calcium counter”; this shows the average calcium content by weight of many different foods and these counters are easy to find on the internet. Also, have a look at recommendations for calcium intake for your age and sex. If your calcium intake from your diet seems low your bones may benefit from the addition of a regular calcium supplement.
