Osteopenia is a situation characterized by a gradual decrease in bone mass, which makes bones more fragile and increases the risk of fractures. In addition, when osteopenia is not identified and treated correctly, it can develop into osteoporosis, where the bones are so weak that they can break away with just a few strokes.
Osteopenia is more common in postmenopausal women and in men over 60 years of age, because as age advances, the bones become more porous, with decreased calcium absorption by the bones. Therefore, it is recommended to increase the consumption of foods rich in calcium and vitamin D to avoid osteopenia and osteoporosis. Check out foods rich in calcium and vitamin D to prevent osteopenia and osteoporosis.
Causes of osteopenia
Osteopenia is more common in women, especially those who entered menopause early or who are postmenopausal, but it can also happen in men between 60 and 70 years of age due to decreased testosterone production. In addition, other factors that increase the risk of developing osteopenia are:
- Diet low in calcium foods; Being a smoker; Not practicing regular physical activity; Having a family history of osteoporosis; Lack of adequate sun exposure; Long-term use of medications; Changes in thyroid, parathyroid, liver or kidneys.
In addition, chemotherapy, alcoholism and the consumption of drinks or foods rich in caffeine can also favor osteopenia, because they can influence the process of bone formation.
How the diagnosis is made
The diagnosis of osteopenia is made through an examination that evaluates the density of bones, called bone densitometry. This exam is similar to an X-ray and therefore does not cause any pain or discomfort and the only necessary preparation is to avoid taking calcium supplements in the previous 24 hours. In general, the results of the exams are:
- Normal, when it is equal to or greater than 1; Osteopenia, when it is between 1 and -2.5; Osteoporosis, when the result is less than -2.5.
This test should be done every year by women over 65 and men over 70, as osteopenia does not present any type of symptom and, therefore, can easily progress to osteoporosis if it is not identified and treated. Learn more about the bone densitometry exam.
Treatment of osteopenia
Treatment for osteopenia aims to prevent excessive bone loss and progression to osteoporosis, and the use of medications that increase calcium absorption and deposition in the bones, use of calcium and vitamin D supplements may be recommended by the doctor. and change in eating habits, giving preference to foods with calcium and vitamin D.
In addition, it is recommended that caffeine consumption be decreased and that the person engage in physical activity regularly. See more about treatment for osteopenia.
It is important that osteopenia treatment is started quickly to prevent the development of osteoporosis, which requires more care. Check out the following video for other tips to strengthen bones and prevent osteoporosis:
