Also Caucasian and Asian women are mostly likely to have this disease. Some men and young people get this disease, too. Use of steroid medications, excessive consumption of alcohol and low level of testosterone are the causes of osteoporosis in men. If calcium intake is not sufficient or if the body cannot absorb enough calcium, bone tissues become weaker. Throughout life calcium intake is important for bone formation.
Vitamin D plays a crucial role in calcium absorption.
Bone loss occurs without symptoms. People can lose bone mass over many years but not know the problem. Osteoporosis is often referred as a silent disease. Most people may not be aware that they have osteoporosis until a fractured spine, hip or wrist occurs with a simple fall. Patients may loose as much as 6 inches in height.