A recent study report by Vandana Luthra's Care Clinic (VLCC) has claimed that about 300 million people in India suffer from osteoporosis, and it speculates that in the next decade as many as 50% of the Indian population will be victim to this condition.

Citing a report by the Indian Journal of Medical Research, the VLCC's knowledge paper said that, "for population above 50 yrs, there is an estimate that 20% of women and 10-15% men would be Osteoporotic by 2015."

Osteoporosis is a bone-related ailment characterized by a decrease in its density and strength, resulting in fragile bones.

The Study on Obesity & Osteoporosis, conducted under Head of R&D, VLCC Health Care Ltd, Dr. Veena Aggarwal, highlights the growing dangers of osteoporosis and its direct link to Obesity (excess accumulation of body fats).

It also claimed that osteoporosis is also three times as common in Indian males as compared to their counterparts anywhere else in the world.

The study also found that Osteopenia (a condition of bone that is slightly less dense than normal bone but not to the degree of bone in osteoporosis) and Osteoporosis are not always age bound. Younger age groups suffer from this condition too. Osteoporosis is second only to cardiovascular disease, as a global healthcare problem.

"This study is another step in understanding the problems associated with obesity which is the root cause of even greater health risks like osteoporosis and provides our clients with effective preventive measures," Indian Blooms quoted Vandana Luthra, founder and proprietor, VLCC.

Talking about obesity as a lifestyle disease, Aggarwal said that "Osteoporosis is linked to obesity and is increasingly found in youngsters too. It's rapidly catching up amongst urban people."

The study identified some factors that affect bone-related diseases.

Deficiency of calcium and vitamin D

Unscientific weight loss, including crash diets

Lack of fruits and vegetables in the diet and excess consumption of much protein, sodium and caffeine

Smoking and alcohol are "calcium stealers," it can lead to bone-related diseases

Requirements to increase bone strength and to prevent bone-related diseases

Balanced diet with nutrients, vitamins and minerals

Calcium is one of the main bone-forming mineral

Magnesium promotes and regulates the parathyroid hormone, which stimulates calcium absorption in the bone

Phosphorous builds bone strength

Omega-3 fatty acid increases calcium level, increasing bone strength

Adequate exercise keeps muscles toned and bones healthy.