The bones become thin and fragile and may break easily. Initially, bone loss occurs very slowly for both women and men. After the age of 65 to 70 years, men begin to lose bone more rapidly. Women, on the other hand, begin to lose bone more rapidly after they reach menopause and the body's estrogen level falls. Women may also begin to lose bone more rapidly if they have their ovaries removed during surgery before they reach menopause.
Bone loss produces few symptoms but leads to reduced bone strength.
Women are more at risk for osteoporosis than men. This is because, even at its peak, their bone mass is lower, and their bones are lighter. During menopause, the ovaries stop making estrogen, which normally protects against bone loss. This hormone can affect calcium levels in the bloodstream and further weaken the bones. Bone loss can be slowed by 30 minutes of moderate weight-bearing exercise a day.