Osteoporosis
Osteoporosis is a common disorder that results in bones becoming thin and more likely to break. It is can occur in both men and women but is much more commonly seen in women after the menopause.
Bones are made of a mesh of fibres filled with minerals such as calcium; together these create a hard structure. Maximum bone strength occurs during childhood and early adulthood. After the age of thirty, bones gradually lose calcium and they start to become thin and lose their strength. Adopting a lifestyle and diet that encourages bone health is important at any age in order to strengthen bone or minimise the risk of age related osteoporosis.
Some health conditions may increase the risk of developing osteoporosis:
- Crohns/Ulcerative colitis
- Eating disorders (anorexia nervosa and bulimia nervosa)
- Conditions treated with corticosteroids
In addition people who are underweight or who have an excessive alcohol intake are also at risk.
Further Information
The National Osteoporosis Society is a UK charity dedicated to improving the diagnosis, prevention and treatment of osteoporosis.