Osteoporosis is the leading bone disease in the world. It is commonly referred to as "brittle bone disease" as it weakens bones, leading to an increased risk of fractures. The most common bones to break are the wrist, hip and spine. Recent research has revealed that every 30 seconds, someone in the EU has a fracture as a result of osteoporosis.

Osteoporosis affects both men and women, however women are at a higher risk of developing the disease. One in two women over the age of 50 and one in five men over the age of 50 will be affected by osteoporosis. The good news is osteoporosis is largely treatable and even preventable in the majority of people. However, without treatment, osteoporosis can progress causing pain, disability and loss of independence.

There are many reasons why a person can develop osteoporosis such as family history;  eating disorders; gastrointestinal disorders and endocrine disorders. People that smoke  and drink excessively are also more likely to develop osteoporosis.

If you think you may suffer from osteoporosis I recommend that you get a DXA scan of the spine and hips.  It is a non-invasive medical test and is usually completed in about ten minutes so it is quick and painless.

If you have any questions you would like answered please e-mail Noeleen Cronin on info@homeinstead.ie. Noleen is trained as a nurse and specialised in elder care before joining Home Instead Senior Care.

For further information on elder care issues and to keep up to date with Home Instead Senior Care news please click on the following link: http://www.homeinstead.ie/keep_in_touch.aspx.