By Don Asoka Wijewardena
Professor Sarath Lekamwasam, President of Osteoporosis Association Sri Lanka and Professor of Faculty of Medicine, Karapitiya on Wednesday said that Osteoporosis could not be prevented by calcium. No country in the world had recommended scientifically to use calcium to cure Osteoporosis.
Several milk powder items with high calcium content, backed by intensive propaganda through print and electronic media, had flooded the market persuading the people to use them to prevent calcium deficiency. There was no connection between calcium deficiency and Osteoporosis, Prof. Lekamwasam told a media conference held at Health Education Bureau on October 18.
Prof. Lekamwasam said that Osteoporosis meant loss of bone material and weakening of its structure causing fractures. The disease was commonly seen in older women and men. In addition to fractures, Osteoporosis would lead to bending of the spine causimg back ache, gradual shortening of standing height and abnormal standing posture. Osteoporosis was no longer considered an inevitable part of aging.
He pointed out that around 200 million people were suffering from Osteoporosis in the world, including Europe, Japan and USA. In general 75 million people between 60–70 age group in the third world were also suffering from the disease. Fracture was the most dangerous complication of Osteoporosis. Fractures could occur at any site. Spine, hip and wrist fractures were the most common.
Consultant Rheumatologist Dr. Lalith Wijeratne said that hip fractures were major health concerns, because hip fractures were associated with high mortality (risk of death) and morbidity (risk of being not well). Nearly 50 per cent of such patients would need help for their daily normal activities like walking and going to washroom one year after the fracture.
Dr. Wijeratne pointed out that sufficient protein intake during growing period was essential for children. An adequate intake of calcium and vitamin D should be ensured. There were numerous inexpensive sources of calcium in traditional Sri Lankan diet. Small fish like sprats would add high calcium and vitamin D to the diet. Green leaves were also inexpensive source of calcium available in the country perennially.
He added that nutrition and physical activities during childhood would ensure stronger bones. Exercises needed to be continued throughout the entire life to get the maximum benefits. High impact physical activities such as jumping and skipping were the most beneficial activities for young. Brisk walking, running and jogging could be recommended for middle aged people. Elderly persons were required to consult their doctors before engaging in new physical activity programmes, he said.
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