Osteoporosis is often called a “silent disease” because it develops quietly over the years without clear symptoms, until a sudden fracture exposes its presence. For many women, especially after menopause, this condition becomes a growing health concern. With age, bones naturally lose density, but factors like poor diet, limited physical activity, and hormonal changes make the risk even higher. In India, this issue is particularly worrying as millions of women face increased chances of weak bones and fractures later in life. Recent research focusing on postmenopausal Indian women highlights the need for early screening and awareness, using simpler tools that can detect osteoporosis risk before serious damage occurs.







Understanding osteoporosis and its growing concern


A explains that osteoporosis is a skeletal disorder where bone strength decreases due to loss of density and structural damage. This makes bones fragile and more likely to break even with minor falls. It is estimated that more than 200 million postmenopausal women worldwide are affected by this condition.


In India, the concern is rising because many women experience early menopause, poor nutrition, and low physical activity levels. Studies indicate that around 7% of Indian women are already at risk of osteoporosis, while nearly one-third suffer from osteopenia, a condition that precedes it. Compared to Western populations, Indian women also face fractures at a younger age.


Researchers point out that osteoporosis is not just about ageing—it is linked to lifestyle, diet, and even socioeconomic status. Poor calcium intake, vitamin D deficiency, and long periods of inactivity contribute significantly. The condition also affects emotional and physical well-being, often leading to chronic pain, reduced mobility, and dependence on others.





How the OSTA tool helps in identifying at-risk women


Traditionally, osteoporosis is diagnosed using a bone density scan called DXA (Dual-energy X-ray Absorptiometry). However, this test is expensive and often unavailable in smaller towns and rural areas of India. To make early screening accessible, scientists have developed simpler methods such as the Osteoporosis Self-Assessment Tool for Asians (OSTA).


OSTA estimates a person’s osteoporosis risk using only age and body weight, which makes it both simple and cost-effective. The formula is straightforward: OSTA score = (body weight in kg – age in years) × 0.2. Based on the score, women are categorised into low, medium, or high-risk groups.


In the recent Indian study, 174 postmenopausal women were assessed using OSTA. Most of the participants were between 45 and 65 years old. The results showed that nearly 18% of older women were at high risk of osteoporosis, while 55% were at moderate risk. Middle-aged women had a much lower risk, with 90% falling into the low-risk category.


These findings underline the usefulness of OSTA as a quick screening method, especially where advanced medical facilities are limited. It allows women to assess their risk and seek medical advice before fractures occur.






The link between body weight, lifestyle, and bone health


One of the interesting findings from the study was the connection between body weight and osteoporosis risk. Women with a higher Body Mass Index (BMI) showed lower chances of developing osteoporosis. This is because increased body weight adds mechanical load on the bones, which helps maintain bone density.


However, this does not mean that being overweight is always beneficial. The protective effect of body weight must be balanced with the health risks of obesity, such as diabetes or heart disease. What matters most is maintaining a healthy BMI with regular exercise and a nutrient-rich diet.


The study also looked at lifestyle habits, particularly the role of physical inactivity. Around 38% of middle-aged and 40% of older participants who led sedentary lives had higher osteoporosis risk. Although the link was not statistically strong, it reinforces what many health experts already know—staying active helps keep bones healthy. Simple exercises like brisk walking, climbing stairs, or yoga can significantly strengthen bones and muscles over time.






Why early screening and awareness can make a difference


The findings suggest that more than one-third of Indian postmenopausal women are at moderate to high risk of osteoporosis. This calls for stronger public awareness campaigns and easier access to screening. The OSTA tool, for example, can be included in community health programmes and women’s health camps, especially in rural or semi-urban areas.


Since osteoporosis develops slowly, prevention is more effective than treatment. Calcium and vitamin D intake play a crucial role in maintaining bone strength. Regular sunlight exposure, dairy products, green vegetables, and certain fish like sardines can help meet these nutritional needs.


The study also recommends that women above 50 years, particularly those with small body frames or a family history of fractures, should take self-assessment tests or seek medical evaluation. Even though tools like OSTA cannot confirm the disease, they can identify those who need further diagnostic scans such as DXA.


On a broader scale, these findings highlight the need for public health systems to adopt affordable and validated screening tools. In India, where healthcare access varies widely, such methods can make early detection possible for many women who might otherwise remain undiagnosed until a fracture occurs.









Osteoporosis may not show visible signs in its early stages, but its long-term effects can be devastating. For postmenopausal Indian women, the risk is particularly high due to lifestyle patterns, nutritional gaps, and lack of awareness. Studies using tools like OSTA prove that early screening is both practical and effective in spotting potential risks before they lead to fractures.


By encouraging simple, community-based screening and promoting healthy lifestyle choices, India can make real progress in reducing the burden of osteoporosis. The message is clear—knowing your risk early can make all the difference between living strong and struggling with fragile bones.












Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Please consult a healthcare professional before making any changes to your diet, medication, or lifestyle.










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