As the bones get thinner, they become weaker. There is a much greater risk they will break if you fall or have an otherwise minor injury. Medical complications of these injuries can result in longer stays at the hospital, disability, and even death. Osteoporosis is most common in white and Asian women, especially slender women. Osteoporosis occurs as women get older.
Sex hormones help keep bones strong.
The hormone estrogen helps women's bones stay strong. For example, it helps deposit calcium in the bones. While men continue to produce testosterone, their sex hormone, as they get older, women produce much less estrogen after menopause. The lower levels of estrogen cause a weakening of the bones. Osteoporosis can also occur as a result of hormone disorders or prolonged bed rest during serious illness.