Osteoporosis
Osteoporosis, which literally means porous bone, is a disease in which bone density and quality is reduced. As bones become more porous and brittle, the risk of fractures is significantly increased. Bone loss occurs silently and gradually. Often there are no symptoms until the first fracture occurs.
What causes osteoporosis?
Left: natural bone, right: osteoarthritis boneLeft: natural bone, right: osteoporosis our bones and living tissue are constantly changing. From the moment of birth until the young stage, the bones to develop and strengthen. Our bones are in the most intense in our early 20s – called the peak of the bone mass. View more detailed information about Bone Biology.
As we age some of our bone cells begin to dissolve the bone matrix (resorption), while the new bone cells deposit bone (formation). This process is known as a remodeling.
For people with osteoporosis, bone loss outweighs new bone growth. The bones become porous, fragile and prone to fracture. For more detailed information see pathophysiology: Biological causes of osteoporosis.
Fractures
Worldwide, 1 in 3 women and 1 in 5 men are at risk of having osteoporosis fracture. In fact, an osteoporosis fracture is estimated to occur every 3 seconds. The most common fractures resulting from osteoporosis occur in the hip, spine and wrist. The likelihood of these fractures occurring, especially in the hip and spine, increases with age in both women and men.
Of particular concern are spinal (spinal) and hip fractures. Spinal fractures can lead to severe consequences, including loss of height, severe back pain and deformity (sometimes called camshaft and widowhood). Hip fractures often require surgery and can lead to loss of independence or death.
Prevention, diagnosis and treatment
The good news is that there are many steps that can be taken to prevent osteoporosis and diagnosis. It is now a highly treatable condition, with a combination of lifestyle change and appropriate medical treatment, many fractures can be avoided.