Osteoporosis is a condition in which bone density progressively decreases, resulting in weakened bones. Bone weakening increases the risk of fractures in the spine, hip, and wrist. Osteoporosis can eventually result in bone pain and vertebral (spinal) fractures causing abnormal curvature of the spine.

Show Full Description Osteoporosis is a condition characterized by bone thinning. Decreased bone density weakens bones and increases the risk of fractures. Osteoporosis affects approximately 8 million women and 2 million men in the United States. Risk factors for osteoporosis include a family history of osteoporosis, white or Asian race, thin build, sedentary lifestyle, inadequate calcium intake, early menopause, certain medications, and smoking or excessive alcohol consumption. Bone turnover (remodeling) is a normal process during which bone breakdown is balanced by new bone formation. Maximum bone density is reached at about age 30 and slowly decreases with age. In people with osteoporosis, bone is broken down more rapidly than new bone can form, leading to decreased bone density and osteoporosis. In women, osteoporosis usually occurs after menopause (postmenopausal osteoporosis), when bone density loss is accelerated. In the first 5 to 7 years after menopause, women can lose up to 20% of their bone density, due in part to lower estrogen levels. Senile osteoporosis, another type of osteoporosis, is likely caused by age-related deficiencies in calcium and vitamin D, and by unbalanced rates of bone breakdown and new bone formation. Bone thinning and osteoporosis increase the risk of fractures in the spine, hip, wrist, and other bones. Osteoporosis can eventually result in bone pain and vertebral (spinal) compression fractures causing abnormal curvature of the spine. This curvature of the spine is sometimes called a dowager's hump. One's risk of developing osteoporosis and its complications should be assessed by a physician or health care provider. The information provided in the Osteoporosis Condition Guide is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice. A licensed healthcare professional should be consulted for diagnosis of osteoporosis or bone density loss and treatment of any and all medical conditions.