Osteoporosis

• Published in: Primary care Vol. 33; no. 4; p. 943
• Main Author: Rizer, Milisa K
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: United States 01.12.2006
• Subjects: Aged; Aging - physiology; Bone Density; Calcium - therapeutic use; Diphosphonates - therapeutic use; Female; Hip Fractures - etiology; Hip Fractures - prevention & control; Humans; Male; Middle Aged; Osteoporosis - complications; Osteoporosis - drug therapy; Osteoporosis - prevention & control; Risk Factors; Vitamin D - therapeutic use
• ISSN: 0095-4543

Osteoporosis, as defined by the National Osteoporosis Foundation, is a disease that is characterized by low bone mass and structural deterioration of bone tissue, which leads to bone fragility and an increased susceptibility to fractures. Aging is only one factor that contributes to the development of osteoporosis. Genetics, suboptimal nutrition, deficiency of calcium and vitamin D, lifestyle, smoking, decrease in sex hormone production, and medications also contribute to skeletal fragility. Osteoporotic fractures are a frequent and important cause of disability and medical costs worldwide. Fortunately, osteoporotic fractures are preventable. Several guidelines for the prevention, screening, diagnosis, and management for osteoporosis have been established. Although some are consistent and similar, others are not.