Osteoporosis is a disease characterized by decreased bone density. When the bones lose density, they become porous and fragile - leading to an increased risk of fracture, particularly in the hip and spine. There are many factors that affect a woman's risk for developing osteoporosis, but one of the most significant is menopause. Studies have demonstrated that estrogen plays a key role in maintaining bone density. After menopause, when estrogen levels decline, bone loss increases.
Osteoporosis is preventable and treatable in most women.
Osteoporosis is much easier to prevent than it is to treat. Estrogen is approved by the U.S. Federal Drug Administration for both osteoporosis prevention and treatment. ERT is especially recommended for women who have experienced premature menopause. For further, more detailed information on this topic, please refer to the reference source for this page.