What is osteoporosis?

Osteoporosis is a bone disease characterized by a decrease in bone density and a breakdown of the microstructure of bone tissue, resulting in weaker bones and a higher risk of fractures. The disease is usually asymptomatic and is not detected until a fracture occurs, hence the name "silent killer". According to the Hong Kong Health Bureau, in Hong Kong, which has the highest incidence of hip fractures in Asia, about 30% of women over 50 years of age and about 20% of men over 50 years of age suffer from osteoporosis.

Groups at high risk of osteoporosis include:

• Postmenopausal women: Reduced estrogen levels may accelerate bone loss.
• Older people: The rate of bone loss accelerates with age.
• People with a family history of this disease: Genetic factors play an important role in osteoporosis.
• Long-term use of steroid medications: These drugs can interfere with bone formation.
• Prolonged inactivity or bedriddenness: Bones require sufficient weight-bearing stimuli to maintain density.

Importance of the issue

Early detection of osteoporosis is crucial because intervening before a fracture occurs can significantly reduce the risk of future fractures. The Hong Kong Orthopaedic Association recommends that women over 65 and men over 70 be regularly screened for osteoporosis, and those with high risk factors should start testing in advance at the age of 50.

In the management of osteoporosis, the concept that prevention is better than cure is particularly important. Early detection enables:

• Assessment of individual fracture risk
• Develop an individualized prevention strategy
• Monitor changes in bone density
• Timely adjustment of treatment plan

There are many professional things in Hong KongOsteoporosis Screening ClinicSGS offers a wide range of valuation services, including:Osteoporosis testand follow-up management plan.

General osteoporosis test

The most accurate way to detect osteoporosis is a dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) scan. This technique uses two X-rays of different energies to measure bone density in the lumbar spine and hip joints, which are the two areas most likely for osteoporosis fractures. In Hong Kong,This service is widely available in major hospitals and specialty clinics.

Other tests include:

• Ultrasound: Commonly used for heel measurement, more portable than DEFA, but less accurate
• Quantitative computed tomography (QCT): provides a three-dimensional measurement of bone densitometry, but with a higher radiation dose
• X-ray: can only detect severe bone loss, not suitable for early diagnosis

How to prepare for an osteoporosis test

Before undergoing a DEXA scan, patients should be aware of the following:

• Avoid taking calcium supplements 24 hours before the test
• Avoid metal fittings and dress loosely
• Tell your doctor if you have recently had a barium scan, swallowing scan, or CT scan
• Women who are pregnant or may become pregnant should postpone the test

This procedure usually takes only 10-15 minutes and involves placing the patient flat on a table while the equipment slowly scans the area of interest. The entire process is painless and the radiation dose is very low, equivalent to the daily background radiation dose in the natural environment.

Interpretation of test results for osteoporosis

The results of the DEX scan are represented by T-and Z-values.

The Z-score compares a patient's bone density to a population of the same age, gender, and body type. When discussing the results with your doctor, you should ask:

• Individual fracture risk assessment
• Do I need medication?
• Lifestyle Change Recommendations
• If you need a review

Prevention and treatment of osteoporosis

Prevention and treatment of osteoporosis requires a multifaceted approach.

Dietary advice

Calcium (1000-1200 mg) and vitamin D (800-1000 IU) should be taken properly every day. Some common foods high in calcium in Hong Kong include:

• Dairy products: milk, cheese, cheese
• Dark green vegetables: kale, choisam
• Soy products: tofu, soy milk
• Small fish with bones: sardines, rice fish

Exercise Recommendations

Weight-bearing and strength-building exercises are most effective in maintaining bone density.

• Brisk walking, jogging, and dancing at least 3 times a week for 30 minutes at a time
• Resistance training 2-3 times a week
• Tai chi improves balance and reduces the risk of falls

Drug therapy

According to the guidelines of the Hong Kong Hospital Administration, commonly used medications include:

• Bisphosphonates: alendronate, etc.
• Selective estrogen receptor modulators: raloxifene, etc.
• 副甲狀腺素類似物：如特立帕肽
• RANK ligand inhibitors: denosumab, etc.

Embrace osteoporosis and live a healthy life

Osteoporosis is common, but not inevitable. By regularityOsteoporosis testWith a healthy lifestyle and proper treatment, most people can maintain strong bones and reduce the risk of fractures. Hong Kong's healthcare system is well establishedDEXA Scan Hong KongService & ProfessionalOsteoporosis Screening ClinicTo facilitate early assessment and management of bone health. Investing in bone health is an investment in your future quality of life, and it's never too late to start today.骨質疏鬆檢測

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