World Osteoporosis Day is observed annually on October 20 to raise global awareness of the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of osteoporosis and metabolic bone disease. The day involves campaigns by national osteoporosis patient societies from around the world with activities in over 90 countries.

When your bone density is lower than average for your age, but not so low as to indicate osteoporosis is the stage which is called osteopenia. Osteoporosis weakens the bones, making them more susceptible to breaking. If you’ve ever faced a fractured sternum or any broken bone for that matter, you’ll get an idea of how weak bones feel. As the condition develops slowly over several years, it is often only diagnosed after a fall or sudden impact resulting in a bone fracture or break. This is one of the first ways in which this condition can be diagnosed. One of the first ways in which one can begin the treatment for this disease is by consuming the required amount of calcium, vitamin D and other supplements. Another way in which people suffering from this condition could make their lives easier is by getting an adjustable bed and a comfortable mattress (Click here to know more). Nonetheless, here are some of the basic facts about this condition.

The Theme of 2015 World Osteoporosis Day is “Serve up bone strength throughout life”

History

World Osteoporosis Day was launched on 20 October 1996 by the United Kingdom’s National Osteoporosis Society and supported by the European Commission. Since 1997, the day has been organised by the International Osteoporosis Foundation. In 1998 and 1999, the World Health Organization acted as co-sponsor of World Osteoporosis Day.

Did You Know?

• Osteoporosis is a disease where decreased bone strength increases the risk of a broken bone. Worldwide, osteoporosis causes more than 8.9 million fractures annually
• Women are much more likely to develop osteoporosis then men.
• Lack of calcium plays a major role in the development of osteoporosis.
• Low food intake can reduce the number of calories and amount of protein and calcium ingested. In women, anorexia can stop menstruation, leading to weaker bones.
• The major factor in the low Bone Mineral Density (BMD) and poor bone health of Indians is the high prevalence of vitamin D deficiency.