The Osteoporosis Extended Profile consists of selected tests that provide a comprehensive picture of patients at risk for developing osteoporosis. This test can help make specific therapeutic interventions to reduce bone loss and increase bone regeneration. It is also used to monitor the effectiveness of treatment regimens.
Risk factors for osteoporosis
- Family history of osteoporosis
- Gender (more common in women)
- Race (most often in Caucasians)
- Poor diet and smoking
- Excessive alcohol consumption
- Lack of exercise
- Very low weight
- Long-term treatment with steroids and some other drugs
- Menopause in women
- High consumption of carbonated soft drinks, coffee, tea, meat
- Insufficient calcium intake or inadequate absorption
- Gastrointestinal surgeries
- Advanced age
- Chronic stress
- History of fractures
- Hormonal imbalances, including hyperparathyroidism and hyperthyroidism
Why is the Osteoporosis Extended Profile test necessary?
Bones are constantly recycled, resorbed, and reshaped. The bone is resorbed (absorbed) by the osteoclasts, and the osteoblasts form the bones. Osteoporosis is a common disease of postmenopausal women and is associated with increased bone resorption and reduced bone formation. The result is the creation of thin and weak bones prone to fractures. Osteoporosis is now being increasingly diagnosed in older men as well. Early diagnosis allows therapeutic intervention and prevention of bone fractures.
Diet, lifestyle interventions, and sometimes supplements can prevent osteoporosis. In people who have already developed osteoporosis, lifestyle, diet, and supplements can also play a key role in slowing the disease.
The early stages of the disease are asymptomatic. Only laboratory tests can provide the evidence to start the therapeutic interventions in time.
