Osteoporosis is a bone disease that causes bones to become weak, brittle, and more likely to break. The word “osteoporosis” literally means “porous bone.”
It occurs when the body loses too much bone, makes too little bone, or both — resulting in reduced bone density and strength. The condition is most common in older adults, particularly postmenopausal women, but it can affect anyone.
Common fracture sites include the hip, spine, and wrist. Since bone loss occurs gradually, osteoporosis often remains silent until a fracture happens, which is why it’s known as a “silent disease.”
Symptoms
In its early stages, osteoporosis usually has no symptoms. However, as the disease progresses, the following signs may appear:
Back pain caused by a fractured or collapsed vertebra
Loss of height over time
Stooped posture or curved spine (kyphosis)
Bones that break easily, even from minor falls or simple movements
Weak grip strength or difficulty standing for long periods
Limited mobility due to fragile bones
Causes
Osteoporosis occurs when the creation of new bone doesn’t keep up with the loss of old bone. Several factors contribute to this imbalance.
1. Aging
As people age, bone mass naturally decreases.
After menopause, women lose bone rapidly due to a drop in estrogen levels.
2. Hormonal Changes
Low estrogen in women or low testosterone in men weakens bones.
Thyroid hormone imbalances (overactive thyroid) can also lead to bone loss.
3. Nutritional Deficiencies
Low calcium intake reduces bone density.
Vitamin D deficiency prevents proper calcium absorption.
Poor nutrition and eating disorders (like anorexia) accelerate bone loss.
