1. What is osteoporosis?

Two types of cells are constantly at work in our bones.One set builds up new bone while another set break down old bone. Up to our mid-20s the construction cells work harder building strength into our skeleton. From our 40s onwards, the demolition cells overtake and our bones gradually lose their density as a natural part of ageing. Osteoporosis is a disease in which bones become fragile and more likely to break.

It is a disease characterized by low bone mass and structural deterioration of bone tissue. It s important to understand that bone is not a hard and lifeless structure; it is, in fact, complex, living tissue. Our bones provide structural support for muscles, protect vital organs, and store the calcium essential for bone density and strength. If not prevented or if left untreated, osteoporosis can progress painlessly until a bone b?reaks. These broken bones, also known as fractures, occur typically in the hip, spine, and wrist.

Reference images by: Atlas of Postmenopausal Osteoporosis, Second Edition. Rene Rizzoli. France. Kapp Lahure Jombart. 2004.

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