In osteoporosis, breakdown occurs faster than replacement, and the bones become weak. Women are at greater risk than men, especially after menopause. There is a direct relationship between the lack of estrogen after menopause and the contribution to osteoporosis. Symptoms may not develop until bone loss is extensive. Other risk factors may include family history, alcohol abuse, cigarette smoking, physical inactivity, and chronically low intake of calcium.
Osteoporosis is a major public health concern.
The following statistics identify the extensiveness of the osteoporotic health problem. Half of all white females will experience an osteoporotic fracture in their lifetime. 100 million people worldwide are at risk for osteoporosis. 28 million women in the United States are at risk for osteoporosis. All postmenopausal women with fractures.