Osteoporosis – A silent killer in the elderly
Osteoporosis is a bone disease that gradually develops when bone mineral density or bone mass decreases and the quality of bone is impaired as we age. As a result, it can lead to a decrease in bone strength and increase the potential risk of fractures. Osteoporosis causes bones to become weak and brittle, therefore even minor trauma or mild stress can cause a fracture. It frequently refers to “the silent killer” since it usually exhibits no symptoms. The elderly patients are unaware of their bone loss until they experience fractures. Osteoporosis-related fractures most commonly occur in spine, hip and wrist. Once the bones have been weakened by osteoporosis, related signs and symptoms that need medical attention are back pain, caused by a collapsed spine, a stooped posture and loss of height over time. Hip fractures from osteoporosis in the elderly are usually the result of a fall, leading to severe hip pain, restricted movement and inability to walk. If left untreated, patients with hip fractures are at greater risk of immobilization and being bed-ridden, leading to other serious complications. Since there is no alarming sign of osteoporosis, the best way to check for bone density and risk of osteoporosis is osteoporosis screening test, especially those who are at risk of osteoporosis.
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Comprehensive Osteoporosis Screening Package
Comprehensive osteoporosis screening is to assess the risk of osteoporosis using bone density test which is an imaging test using small amount of X-rays to determine the mineral density of the bones in combination with blood tests for certain vitamin, mineral and hormone levels indicating osteoporosis. Comprehensive screening for osteoporosis also includes physical examination and joint movement assessment conducted by orthopedic specialists, allowing accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment plan.
Who should get Comprehensive Osteoporosis Screening?
- People aged over 50
- Medical history of fractures caused by minor accidents, e.g. fall or fall out of bed
- Family history (mother or father) with hip fractures
- Early menopause before the age of 45
- Certain underlying conditions, e.g. diabetes, thyroid diseases, rheumatoid arthritis, and inflammatory bowel disease.
