One in four men and one in two women over 50 will develop a fracture due to osteoporosis in their lifetime.
Twenty per cent of those over 60 years of age who break a hip will die within the year, and only 30 per cent will return to full independence.
Osteoporosis is a silent disease that is usually not diagnosed until a person breaks a bone. Bones become brittle, which can cause them to break more easily. Bones most affected are the hip, lower back, and wrists.
It is estimated that up to 300,000 people in Ireland have osteoporosis, many unaware that they have the condition.
In most cases this is a treatable disease, but for the best results early diagnosis is essential.
The team at Spiddal Medical Centre have been providing a DXA service for more than 20 years. A DXA scan is the most accurate test used to diagnose the condition.
DXA scan is recommended for those at risk — all women over 65, all men over 70, and those under 65 years with other risk factors such as previous fracture/break, family history, smoking, excessive alcohol intake, coeliac disease, diabetes, thyroid problems, haemochromatosis, and medications such as steroids, blood thinning tablets, chemotherapy.
How to avoid problems and maintain bone health
Avoid smoking, minimise alcohol intake, eat a diet rich in calcium and vitamin D, take plenty of weight bearing exercise, and if you are at risk, organise a DXA scan.
To book an appointment call 091 553135 or email [email protected].
