Brittle bones and osteoporosis are often conditions associated with senior citizens. However, in recent years, several young Indians have been suffering from mineral loss or weakening bones. With symptoms such as fatigue and joint pain becoming common issues, an increasing number of young adults (in their 20s and 30s) are being diagnosed with thinning bones, known as osteopenia.

Without early intervention, this could turn into osteoporosis at an alarmingly young age making our bones far more vulnerable to injury. Here, we look at some of the risk factors contributing to this condition and essential intervention factors such as lifestyle changes and the bone mineral density (BMD) test.

Risk Factors Contributing to Weak Bones

Several lifestyle factors play a role in weakening bones. These include:

• Overconsumption of junk and processed food has resulted in a diet lacking in essential nutrients such as calcium, vitamin D, and phosphorus which can lead to fragile bones.
• Sedentary lifestyles, poor sunlight exposure, and lack of movement are major contributors to weaker bones.
• Rising factors such as chronic stress, poor sleep, smoking, and alcohol consumption affect the body’s ability to absorb nutrients further weakening bones.
• Certain medical conditions such as hormonal imbalances or eating disorders can also contribute to bone density loss in the younger population.

Importance of Timely Diagnosis for Osteoporosis

The best way to detect osteopenia is through the Prodigy DXA test, a widely used method for BMD testing.

BMD is a measurement of the mineral content in your bones, typically calcium, which determines bone strength. Low BMD can indicate a risk for fractures or breaks, as bones become more brittle over time. Early detection of low BMD allows for timely intervention to prevent further bone loss.

Testing Procedure

A Prodigy DXA test at Clinico is a quick, non-invasive procedure that uses low-level radiation to scan the bones, particularly the spine, hip, or forearm. The results are then compared to a standard reference to give a T-score or Z-score. A T-score of -1 or higher is considered normal, while scores between -1 and -2.5 indicate osteopenia, and below -2.5 suggests osteoporosis.

Note: While the Prodigy DXA test uses low-dose radiation, making the risk minimal, it is not recommended for pregnant women.

Steps to Limit Bone Damage

Along with an evaluation using the bone mineral density test, lifestyle changes are essential to prevent further bone weakening. Core factors include:

• Adopting a calcium-rich diet rich in whole foods such as dairy products, leafy greens, fortified cereals, and nuts. It’s also important to ensure adequate vitamin D intake, which helps the body absorb calcium.
• Physical movement such as walking along with a strength-training regime is essential for healthy bones.
• Focus on a stress-free lifestyle, making sure you get adequate sleep every night. Avoid or limit smoking and excessive alcohol consumption.
• Regular BMD testing can help with an early diagnosis for osteoporosis and ensure that the treatment protocols are working correctly.

Conclusion

Osteopenia in young Indians is a growing concern. Timely detection through bone mineral density tests, such as the Prodigy DXA test, can help provide a clear picture of the bones and allow for timely rectification before it leads to further complications.

For more details on BMD testing at Clinico, please click here.