New Delhi, Oct 20: On the occasion of World Osteoporosis Day, Aakash Healthcare has released an analysis of 1,246 DEXA scan records collected between April 2025 and March 2026, highlighting a significant burden of reduced bone mineral density among patients undergoing bone health assessment. The findings underline the importance of early detection, timely intervention and comprehensive evaluation of bone health.

The analysis found that 69.3% of patients had osteopenia or osteoporosis, with 38.3% classified as having osteopenia and 31% as having osteoporosis. Normal bone mineral density was observed in 25.7% of patients, while 5.1% fell into the study’s high-BMD category.

Age-wise findings revealed that approximately 72–73% of patients aged 55–84 years had osteopenia or osteoporosis. Reduced bone density was also observed among younger patients in the clinical cohort, highlighting the importance of appropriate bone health assessment beyond older age groups. As the analysis covers patients who underwent DEXA scanning, the findings should not be interpreted as prevalence estimates for the general population.

The analysis also examined Vitamin D and parathyroid hormone (PTH), which play important roles in bone and mineral metabolism. Among 544 patients with available Vitamin D results, 56.1% had low or insufficient levels according to the study’s classification. Of the 146 patients with available PTH results, 31.5% had elevated levels. However, Vitamin D results were unavailable for 56.3% of the cohort and PTH results for 88.3%, limiting conclusions about the entire group.

Dr. Aashish Chaudhry, Director & Head, Orthopaedics & Joint Replacement at Aakash Healthcare, said, “Bone health is often overlooked until a fracture or significant pain brings it to attention. These findings highlight the importance of identifying reduced bone density early and understanding the metabolic factors that may influence skeletal health. DEXA scans provide valuable information about bone mineral density, while investigations such as Vitamin D, calcium and PTH testing, when clinically indicated, can help doctors assess underlying metabolic abnormalities. A comprehensive approach combining appropriate screening, nutrition, physical activity, fall prevention and timely medical intervention can play an important role in protecting bone health and maintaining mobility and independence as people age.”

The findings reinforce the importance of combining bone density assessment with appropriate biochemical investigations and individual clinical evaluation. While the analysis is descriptive and does not establish causal relationships, it highlights the need for greater awareness of osteoporosis and proactive bone health management.

On World Osteoporosis Day, Aakash Healthcare calls for greater emphasis on early screening, preventive care and informed clinical assessment to help protect bone strength, reduce fracture risk and preserve quality of life.