Osteoporosis is a form of arthritis in which the bones experience excessive calcium loss, resulting
May 8th, 2008Osteoporosis is a form of arthritis in which the bones experience excessive calcium loss, resulting in decreased bone density. Loss of calcium and reduced bone density can result in brittle bones and fractures. Women are more prone to developing osteoporosis. They become much more prone to developing the condition after the age of 40, after the onset of menopause. After menopause, women begin to produce less estrogen. Estrogen is instrumental in helping the bones stay strong because it helps retain calcium. Many women must supplement their calcium intake to ensure that they retain their bone density. Men too may be affected by osteoporosis, but the number of affected men in the United States is much lower than the number of women who are affected. This is partly due to the fact that men generally have more bone mass than women. However, the normal aging process can cause osteoporosis to develop in both women and men. Osteoporosis also tends to affect individuals with decreased muscular activity. Although it remains one of the most common forms of arthritis in the United States, increased education and public attention about this condition has helped raise awareness about the importance of prevention and treatment of osteoporosis.
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