Osteoporosis Cases Surge Among Women: Early Detection and Lifelong Management Key to Preventing Fractures

[medi K / HEALTH IN NEWS] Osteoporosis is a chronic condition in which both the quantity and quality of bone weaken, making fractures likely even from minor impacts. The challenge lies in its often asymptomatic nature, with the disease frequently discovered only after spinal or hip fractures occur. Spinal fractures can lead to height loss or a hunched posture, while hip fractures often necessitate surgery and extended hospital stays, severely impairing quality of life. In elderly patients, risks of complications like pneumonia and blood clots also rise.

Bang Cheong-won, an orthopedic surgeon at The Catholic University of Korea Incheon St. Mary's Hospital, noted that "fractures often precede any noticeable symptoms," adding, "Especially in older patients, breaks can result from mild triggers like coughing, underscoring the need for early diagnosis and ongoing management."

Sharp Rise in Female Patients... Heightened Vulnerability Post-Menopause

Data from South Korea's Health Insurance Review and Assessment Service show that the number of people treated for osteoporosis climbed sharply from about 1.05 million in 2020 to 1.32 million in 2024. Roughly 94% of these patients are women, primarily because bone density plummets alongside the rapid decline in estrogen levels around menopause. Cases are concentrated among those in their 60s and older, with fracture risk escalating as age advances.

Risk factors for osteoporosis include aging, menopause, family history, smoking, alcohol use, sedentary lifestyle, and deficiencies in calcium and vitamin D. For early detection, bone mineral density testing is the most effective approach, with dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) preferred over plain X-rays for accurate measurements. Regular screenings are particularly advised for adults aged 65 and above, as well as postmenopausal women.

Persistence Outweighs Medication Alone

Treatment revolves around pharmacotherapy. Agents that suppress bone resorption or promote bone formation help preserve bone density and mitigate fracture risk. Options range from oral medications and injectables to long-acting formulations, enabling choices tailored to individual routines. Yet treatment demands sustained commitment over months or years rather than short-term gains, as interruptions can trigger renewed bone loss.

Dr. Bang stressed that "osteoporosis requires prolonged oversight, making patient compliance paramount," and urged, "Consulting a specialist to identify a fitting regimen and maintaining it diligently is essential."

Prevention efforts must complement treatment. Calcium is abundant in dairy products and bone-in fish like anchovies, while vitamin D can be sourced from sunlight exposure or supplements. Adults are recommended to consume 800 to 1,000 milligrams of calcium daily and at least 800 international units of vitamin D.

Weight-bearing activities such as walking or stair climbing, combined with resistance exercises like squats and push-ups, bolster both bones and muscles, lowering fracture odds. Intensity should build gradually, aligned with one's physical condition and joint health. High-risk individuals—with prior fractures or a family predisposition—warrant routine evaluations, along with home assessments to prevent falls and attention to sensory impairments.

Dr. Bang observed that "osteoporosis extends beyond mere bone fragility to directly affect everyday autonomy," concluding, "Safeguarding bone health is, in essence, protecting one's overall well-being."

Lim Hye Jung / press@themedik.kr

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