Osteoporosis: Fast Facts
Reviewed By:
Vikas Garg, M.D., MSA
- Osteoporosis is a disorder in which the bones lose mass and
density.
- This condition is most common in women during and after
menopause. This is because of the reduction in estrogen levels
deprives the body of the hormone's ability to protect against bone
loss.
- Osteoporosis also strikes many elderly men. By age 75 it is
equally common in men and women.
- Less frequently, osteoporosis can affect young people, such as
teen-age girls who don't eat enough, overexert themselves and stop
menstruating regularly, a condition known as female athlete
triad.
- Osteoporosis is more common in fair-skinned than dark-skinned
people.
- Low levels of calcium, phosphorus and other minerals contribute
to weakening of the bones.
- In most cases, osteoporosis presents no symptoms in its early
stages. It may cause back pain as it progresses.
- As the bones become increasingly weak, osteoporosis may lead to
fractures.
- The most common sites for fractures caused by osteoporosis are
the spine, hip, and wrist.
- Mild falls and even coughing, sneezing or bending over can all
lead to fractures in someone with osteoporosis.
- Osteoporosis usually can be revealed through tests that measure
bone density.
- Hormone replacement therapy has long been the primary treatment
for osteoporosis for women. However, recently concerns have been
raised about the potential adverse health effects of hormone
replacement medications.
- Hormone replacement therapy is now rarely used as a first line
of treatment for osteoporosis.
- Other drugs are available that help people increase their bone
density.
- People can take several steps to reduce their risk of suffering
fractures related to osteoporosis. The most effective preventive
measure is to build bone mass at a young age through adequate
exercise and a nutritious diet so that a store of strong bone
material is built up for later years.
- However, people of all ages can strengthen their bones through
lifestyle changes such as improved diet, regular exercise and not
smoking.
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