Around 40 percent of adults worldwide have osteopenia, according to the National Library of Medicine, as reported by SciTechDaily. Osteopenia is a condition in which bones become weaker than normal.
According to Anglia Ruskin University, the condition particularly affects older adults and women after menopause.
Bones are constantly being renewed in the body, but as people age, the body gradually begins to break down more bone than it can rebuild.
Smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and too little exercise can make bones even weaker. A lack of calcium and vitamin D may also increase the risk.
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Risk increases
Hormones also play an important role. After menopause, women experience a drop in estrogen levels, which can cause bones to lose strength more quickly.
Certain diseases and medications can also negatively affect bone health.
These include the long-term use of corticosteroids and diseases such as celiac disease and Crohn’s disease.
Exercise can help strengthen bones. Walking, running, and dancing are examples of activities that may improve bone strength.
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Often discovered late
Osteopenia usually causes no clear symptoms. As a result, many people only discover the condition after a fall or a bone scan.
Doctors use scans to measure bone density and assess the risk of fractures. Treatment often focuses on a healthy diet, exercise, and lifestyle changes.
According to researchers, osteopenia does not necessarily develop into osteoporosis if the condition is detected early.
Sources: SciTechDaily and the National Library of Medicine.
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