Osteoporosis is a condition characterized by a gradual decrease in bone density over time, making bones more brittle, susceptible to damage, and prone to fractures even from minor injuries. As individuals age, bone metabolism undergoes significant changes, leading to reduced bone formation and increased bone resorption, ultimately resulting in decreased bone density.

According to Master of Science, Doctor Pham Thi Xuan Thu, from the Department of Internal Medicine, Musculoskeletal, Tam Anh General Hospital, Ho Chi Minh City, osteoporosis is a common disease among the elderly but is typically more severe in women. The following are three primary causes for this condition:

Women's bone structures are generally smaller than men's, resulting in lower peak bone density. This means the amount of bone accumulated during their younger years is not as substantial as in men. Consequently, when women reach middle age, even with a similar rate of bone loss, their remaining bone density is lower, leading to earlier and more severe osteoporosis.

Pregnancy. A fetus requires a large amount of calcium for the development of its skeletal and dental systems. A lack of calcium can expose the fetus to risks such as developmental delays, congenital rickets, congenital wheezing, and bone deformities. Calcium supplied to the fetus is typically derived from the mother's diet and, in part, from the mother's bones.

Menopause or perimenopause leads to a decrease in estrogen hormone levels, which accelerates bone resorption and results in a reduction in bone mass.

Doctor Thu explains bone density scan results to a patient. Photo: Tam Anh General Hospital.

Doctor Thu explains bone density scan results to a patient. Photo: Tam Anh General Hospital.

According to Doctor Thu, osteoporosis in its early stages presents no clear symptoms. Most patients experience only vague signs, which are easily mistaken for normal degeneration or age-related issues, such as dull lower back pain, knee fatigue during activity, or morning joint stiffness. Osteoporosis is often only diagnosed when the disease has advanced, typically after a patient suffers a fall leading to a fracture or vertebral compression. While these injuries are not directly life-threatening, they cause significant pain and reduced mobility, potentially leading to dangerous complications like pressure ulcer infections or venous thrombosis.

Osteoporosis screening plays a crucial role in the health of older adults, especially women. Although it cannot be fully cured, early detection allows osteoporosis to be managed, helping to maintain independent mobility and prevent complications that reduce quality of life.

Bone density measurement using the DEXA method provides fast and highly accurate results. Photo: Tam Anh General Hospital.

Bone density measurement using the DEXA method provides fast and highly accurate results. Photo: Tam Anh General Hospital.

Bone density measurement utilizes dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) to determine bone mass. According to Doctor Thu, DEXA is currently considered one of the "gold standards" for accurately diagnosing osteoporosis and fracture risk. This method overcomes image distortion, offers high resolution, and produces clear, high-quality bone images. DEXA scans are also highly safe due to very low radiation exposure, require no anesthesia, and are non-invasive. Common areas for bone density measurement include the spine, hip, and forearm.

Individuals over 60 years old or those with a history of fractures or undergoing medication treatment should have a bone density scan once annually. Those with a lower risk may only require screening every two years.

Phi Hong