Preventing demineralisation of the bones

Early detection of the risk of osteoporosis

ASTF checkups include a measurement of bone density for women aged 45 and above in order to guide patients towards prevention or treatment of existing osteoporosis.

Osteoporosis is an illness which sets in slowly and in which the skeletal system becomes increasingly fragile. Persons at risk of osteoporosis are:

• Women aged over 50
• Men aged over 70
• Persons with a family history of osteoporosis
• Women whose menopause occurred before the age of 45
• Persons with a fine bone structure
• Prolonged hormonal imbalances
• Persons suffering from a chronic illness such as hyperthyroidism or diabetes

The evolution of your bone structure with age will naturally depend on the capital which you have built up. The risk factors underlying this disease are associated with a lifestyle which causes the skeletal structure to become more fragile:

• A sedentary life
• Substantial loss of weight
• Low calcium diet
• Lack of vitamins D, A or C
• Excessive consumption of coffee and/or alcohol
• Tobacco use

The best prevention of osteoporosis involves regular physical activity and a balanced diet rich in calcium, vitamins A, C and D. Physical activity places a strain on the skeletal structure which reacts by increasing its density. For this purpose, calcium and vitamins are needed.

Vitamin D is activated by UV radiation. Exposure to daylight for at least a quarter of an hour every day is therefore important.