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Yang Rui-Min
OSTEOPOROSIS
IN
THE
ELDERLY
ln
China,
6.3%
of
the
population
has osteoporosis
-
abnormal
and
progressive calcium loss from
bones.
Fracture of
lragile crucial
bones is like
collapse of
a
building.
3
years after the
menopause,
almost
1"/"
have
osteoporosis, accumulating by
2-3"/"
per
year
until at the age of 70
when men
are also
commonly affected. Single-
energy X-ray bone densitometers
de-
tecting cortical
(thick
outer
layer) bone
changes
is
a
good screening tool. Dual-
energy bone densitometers
can
now
detect
changes
in most bones, includ-
ing bone mineral
density. Adequate
calcium
intake
is
basic
to
the
management. Take
calcium-rich
food,
e.9., milk, dairy products, bean-curd,
sardines,
etc.
Supplement
if
inadequate. As vitamin
D enhances
calcium
absorption
regardless of body
requirements, observe
recommended
doses of vitamin
D strictly.
Oestrogens,
though
widely
used
by
post-meno-
pausal women in developed countries,
have definite side-effects. Consult
your
doctor
as
alternatives,
e.9.,
biphosphonates
or
calcitonins
may
also
be
considered.
Even
TCM herbs
have
been found
to
be useful
but
further
investigations are required
before
routine
use. Above
all,
have regular
exercises, especially
in
the sun - helps
to generate optimum amounts
of
vita-
min
D.
As prevention
is better
than cure,
bone densitometry should be
done
regularly lor the
elderly, even in the
absence of symptoms.
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