Osteoporosis, whose name comes from the Latin for ‘porous bones’, is a progressive condition that diminishes the mass (mineral content) of bones and weakens their structure, thus making them highly susceptible to fracture. The condition affects one in three women and a large number of men over 50 years of age. It is largely preventable provided people at increased risk are identified at an early and influential stage. The decline in oestrogen after the menopause is directly related to the dramatic rise of osteoporosis in older women. This hormone assists the body in absorbing calcium and keeps the bones strong. (Older men experience osteoporosis as well, but bone loss is generally less severe because they have denser bones). Early menopause is another risk factor, as are both lack of regular weight-bearing exercise and a diet low in calcium and other nutrients necessary for optimal bone production. Your risk of osteoporosis is also higher if you are small-boned (white and Asian women tend to be small-boned), underweight or postmenopausal, if you have a family history of osteoporosis, or if you have taken steroids or anticonvulsants for long periods.
