What is Osteoporosis? Its Classification, Risk Factors, Gold Standard Examination, and Prevention

Definition of Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis is a disease characterized by a decrease in bone mass and bone tissue quality, which causes bones to become brittle and break easily. This disease is often referred to as a "silent disease" because it does not cause significant symptoms until a fracture occurs. Osteoporosis is most common in the elderly, especially in post-menopausal women, although it can affect both men and young people under certain conditions.

Osteoporosis Classification

Osteoporosis is classified into two main categories:

1. Primary Osteoporosis:
   • The most common type, which usually occurs as a result of the natural aging process. There are two main subtypes:
     • Type I (Post-menopausal osteoporosis): Usually occurs in women after menopause due to decreased estrogen levels, which play an important role in maintaining bone strength.
     • Type II (senile osteoporosis): Occurs in elderly men and women (over 70 years old), due to the natural aging process that causes a decrease in bone mass.
2. Secondary Osteoporosis:
   • Caused by other medical conditions or the use of certain medications that affect bone metabolism, such as long-term glucocorticoid use, hyperthyroidism, hypogonadism, or kidney disease.

Risk Factors for Osteoporosis

There are several risk factors that play a role in increasing a person's chances of developing osteoporosis, including:

• Age
• Gender
• Descendents
• Lifestyle Habits
• Nutrients
• Drug Use

Gold Standard Osteoporosis Examination

The most clinically recognized method for diagnosing osteoporosis is Dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA), which is the gold standard in bone density examinations. DXA measures bone mineral density (BMD) at several locations in the body, such as the pelvis and spine, to assess the risk of fracture.

The T-score resulting from the DXA examination is used to classify the severity of osteoporosis:

• Normal: A T score greater than -1.
• Osteopenia (decreased bone density that has not yet reached osteoporosis): T score between -1 to -2.5.
• Osteoporosis: T score less than -2.5.

Prevention of Osteoporosis

Preventing osteoporosis early is important, especially for those who are at high risk. Here are some effective ways to prevent osteoporosis:

1. Adequate Calcium and Vitamin D Consumption: Adequate calcium intake is essential for building and maintaining strong bones. Sources of calcium include dairy products, green vegetables, and calcium supplements. Vitamin D is also needed to help with calcium absorption, and the source can come from sun exposure or supplements.
2. Exercise Routine: Weight training and exercises that involve muscle strength, such as walking, running, or lifting weights, can help maintain bone strength and slow the loss of bone mass.
3. Avoid Bad Habits: Quit smoking and limit alcohol consumption as both can accelerate bone mass loss and increase the risk of fractures.
4. Hormonal Treatments: In some post-menopausal women, estrogen hormone therapy can help maintain bone density, although this should be discussed with a doctor as it may pose other health risks.
5. Supplement Use: If it is difficult to get nutrients from the daily diet, calcium and vitamin D supplements can be used to ensure adequate intake.

Well, Sahabat Hermina, Osteoporosis is a common disease but often goes undetected until a fracture occurs. By knowing the risk factors, early diagnosis with DXA screening, and implementing a healthy lifestyle that involves balanced nutrition and regular exercise, the risk of osteoporosis can be minimized. Prevention early is essential to maintain long-term bone health and avoid complications later in life.

Reference:

1. National Osteoporosis Foundation. (2021). "What is Osteoporosis?" Retrieved from https://www.nof.org
2. International Osteoporosis Foundation. (2021). "Risk Factors for Osteoporosis." Retrieved from https://www.osteoporosis.foundation

NHS UK. (2021). "Osteoporosis - Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment." Retrieved from https://www.nhs.uk