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Health
Osteoporosis
When
talking about osteoporosis, one speaks of decreased bone mass, hence,
the risk of fracture, and consequently, a severe decrease in quality
of life and significant public health expenditures.
Today, osteoporosis poses a veritable public health problem in light
of the constant increase in the elderly population: European experts
have recently estimated that the number of fractures will more than
double over the next 50 years. After 65, the incidence of spinal
fracture increases by 1% per year of age in women. It is also a
growing problem for men.
Osteoporosis
is often called the "silent epidemic" in Europe. The figures show
a significant increase in the disease, which affects one in three
women and one in eight men from the age of 50. In a European Community
report, it has been estimated that the number of hip fractures will
increase from 414,000 to 972,000 in the course of the next 50 years,
notably because of the aging population. Despite this, none of the
EU members have launched prevention programmes. Osteoporosis causes
pain and disability suffering, as well as death : 50% of patients
who have a hip fracture definitively loose their independence. This
pathology leads to chronic pain, loss of mobility and limits every
life quality area.
The
occurrence of a hip or spinal fracture respectively multiplies by
6 and 8 the risk of death in patients who suffer from osteoporosis.
Osteoporosis depends on several factors, menopause, heredity, life
style and dietary habits. It need not be seen as a fact of life.
In addition to screening programs (bone density measurement by absorptiometry)
and hormonal substitution treatment after menopause, this prevention
strategies can make a significant difference - mainly based on life
style modifications, especially diet and physical activity.
That
is why we need to raise the profile of osteoporosis and persuade
EU member states to be pro-active for prevention.
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