Osteoporosis is a disease which causes a significant reduction of bone mass. In addition the micro architecture of the bones is disturbed.
Typical symptoms are frequently occurring fractures (e.g. fractures of the vertebrae , of the bones of the hip, or the forearms). Over time deformations will develop of certain parts of the skeletal system, especially of the vertebrae of the spine, which can be observed in form of a bent posture or a humped back.
Osteoporosis is most common in women after the menopause, one reason for this is the hormonal change over during this period. But men can also be afflicted by this disorder. Osteoporosis can best be prevented and lasting damages can be avoided by early diagnosis, and by applying preventive measures (most of all an appropriate nutrition and physical exercises).
This is particularly important for women with elder female relatives who are afflicted with osteoporosis. These women run a particularly high risk to get afflicted by this disorder, because this illness is also subject to genetic causes.
Author: J. Land