Osteoporosis is a condition that weakens bones, making them fragile and more likely to break.

It’s a fairly common condition that affects around three million people in the UK.More than300,000 people receive hospital treatment for fragility fractures (fractures that occur from standing height or less) every year as a result of osteoporosis.

Wrist fractures, hip fracturesand fractures of thevertebrae (bones in the spine) are the most common type of breaks that affect people with osteoporosis. However, they can also occur in other bones, such as inthe arm, ribsor pelvis.

There are usually no warnings you’ve developed osteoporosis andit’s often only diagnosed when a bone isfractured aftereven minor falls.

What causes osteoporosis?

During childhood, bones grow and repair very quickly, but this process slows as you get older.

Bones stop growing in length between the ages of 16 and 18, but continue to increase in density until you’re in your late 20s.

You gradually start to lose bone density from about 35 years of age. Women lose bone rapidly in the first few years after the menopause (when monthly periods stop and the ovaries stop producing an egg).

Losing bone is a normal part of the ageing process, but for some people it can lead to osteoporosis and an increased risk of fractures.

Other factors that increase your risk of developing osteoporosis include:

• inflammatory conditions, such as rheumatoid arthritis, Crohn’s disease and chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder (COPD)
• conditions that affect the hormone-producing glands, such as an overactive thyroid gland (hyperthyroidism) or an overactive parathyroid gland (hyperparathyroidism)
• a family history of osteoporosis, particularly history of a hip fracture in a parent
• long-term use of certain medications that affect bone strength or hormone levels, such as oral prednisolone
• malabsorption problems
• heavy drinking and smoking

See full story on www.nhs.uk

Image courtesy of www.nhs.uk