At age 80, nearly two thirds of the female population are affected. Women with the most severe disease, however, are those who develop the condition before age 50.
Bones are in constant state of change throughout life.
Old bone cells are lost and new bones are laid down. Prior to age 35, bones are built and store efficiently. After that, as part of the aging process, the body begins to lose bone mass faster than it can rebuild. Prevention and treatment can delay the onset of the illness by as much as 20-30 years. Osteoporosis is a major cause of fracture, pain, disability and death.