Research conducted by scientists indicates that aging not only depletes calcium but also proteins and trace elements in bones. The ultimate consequence is a reduction in bone density, leading to difficulties in movement, stooping, and a decrease in height.
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| Some people believe that drinking calcium milk will prevent osteoporosis, which is incorrect because calcium is only one part of bones (Image: Beautiful) |
Bone fractures due to osteoporosis are more likely to occur in individuals who were less active outdoors during childhood and had diets high in pork, with little consumption of shrimp, fish, or milk. As they grow older, many spend long hours at computer desks, exercise little, smoke, drink alcohol, consume sugary drinks, and take medications (such as sleeping pills, cortisone, and antihypertensives). These individuals are more susceptible to fractures, including femoral neck fractures, forearm fractures, and spinal fractures. Specifically, femoral neck fractures can lead to a 20% mortality rate within the first year.
Mistakes in Diet and Exercise
Some individuals believe that drinking calcium milk will prevent osteoporosis, which is incorrect because calcium is only part of the bone structure. As a result, there are children who suffer from rickets despite having adequate calcium intake, as their bones cannot absorb calcium due to a deficiency of vitamin D. This is why doctors often advise new mothers not to “wrap” their newborns but to expose them to morning sunlight to facilitate vitamin D synthesis. The same applies to adults; morning sunlight is very beneficial for health. Adequate milk consumption alone is not enough for bone health unless it is combined with a proper diet, exercise, and medication.
Another reason some individuals end up in the hospital is due to improper sports practices. Dr. Nguyen Van Quang from the Ho Chi Minh City Orthopedic Trauma Hospital states: “At any age, one should choose sports that are suitable for that age. It is common for older individuals to experience joint sprains or herniated discs from running or jumping.”
Detecting Osteoporosis
There are several methods for detection: Bone density can be measured using ultrasound (heel bone measurement), which has an accuracy of 60-70% and is primarily used for widespread screening (often utilized by dairy companies for free osteoporosis assessments). Additionally, the DEXA scanning method performed at Saigon International Maternity Hospital, Tu Du Hospital, and Orthopedic Trauma Hospitals is available at prices ranging from 80,000 to 120,000 VND.
The fastest and most affordable method is measuring bone density online using Radiography Absorptiometry with OsteoGram technology. This method is accurate and causes minimal radiation exposure to patients, making it recognized by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and used in many countries. Not only does it measure patients at the center, but this technique can also assess patients in remote areas via the Internet.
Dr. Nguyen Van Cong from the Medical Diagnostic Center (MEDIC) explains that by utilizing readily available equipment like X-ray machines, films, and standard cassettes, along with information technology advancements, we can measure bone density for remote facilities lacking OsteoGram software. Patients only need to weigh themselves, measure their height, and place their hands on the table for imaging, after which the healthcare staff will handle the remaining processes.
Doctors Ho Chi Trung and Nguyen Van Cong from MEDIC conducted a comparative study on 100 patients at Nhat Tan Hospital in Chau Doc and Binh An Hospital in Kien Giang, yielding results similar to those measured at MEDIC. The cost is 50,000 VND per bone density measurement. Dr. Nguyen Van Cong further states: “When osteoporosis is detected, treatment through medication, exercise, and diet can reduce the risk of fractures by 50%.”
The most expensive yet the most accurate method for detecting osteoporosis (primarily in the spine) is using QCT, available at 500,000 VND per measurement at MEDIC. Additionally, the most effective approach is to maintain a well-balanced diet, engage in physical activity, and avoid alcohol and tobacco. According to nutrition experts, freshwater crabs, soft-shelled crabs, mackerel, sardines, and more are rich in calcium and beneficial for the body. When experiencing body aches, women in premenopausal stages and men in andropause should get bone density measurements to implement proactive treatment measures and prevent accidents caused by the loss of bone density.
