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Osteoporosis

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The human body rests on a frame or structure made almost entirely of bones. Bones are, therefore, vital as far as the body form is concerned. This is in addition to the fact that red blood cells are generated within the bone marrow. Healthy bones, therefore, contribute a lot to the overall health of an individual. However, bones get infections and diseases just like other body parts. This paper presents the case of osteoporosis by defining it and outlining its causes, symptoms, testing and diagnosis, and treatment.
Osteoporosis is primarily a disease characterised by reduced bone strength that makes it susceptible to fracture. Bone strength is measured by establishing the bone mineral density (BMD), also called the bone mass. Persons suffering from osteoporosis have low bone mass/BMD (Adler, 2009). It is mostly prevalent among women aged 50 and above; it is responsible for fractures around the vertebra, hip, or wrist within this age group.

The disease occurs where the body either generates bone cells at a rate slower than they die, or absorbs too much existing bone. Slow bone generation and replacement can be attributed to low levels of calcium and vitamin D which are key components of the bone development process. There are other probable causes of osteoporosis including overindulgence in alcohol, smoking as well as certain medications, and low body weight. However, there are cases where bone loss occurs without any medical explanation. This occurs if disease is genetic.

Osteoporosis is hard to detect in the early stages as it does not show any obvious symptoms. Many victims only discover they have the disease once they suffer fractures. This can be characterised by pain which can occur due to fractures. Spinal fractures can result into height reduction or stooped posture.

The examination and detection of osteoporosis can be done in two major ways: bone

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