Description: Osteoporosis is a medical condition characterized by decreased bone density, resulting in weakened bones and a significantly increased risk of fractures. This disease is more common in older individuals, especially postmenopausal women, due to the decrease in hormones like estrogen that protect bone mass. Osteoporosis often develops silently, with no evident symptoms until a fracture occurs, making it a ‘silent epidemic’. The bones most affected are typically the spine, hips, and wrists. Bone loss can be influenced by genetic, nutritional, and lifestyle factors, such as lack of physical activity, insufficient calcium and vitamin D intake, as well as smoking and excessive alcohol consumption. Early detection through bone density tests is crucial to prevent serious complications. Osteoporosis not only affects patients’ quality of life but also poses a significant challenge for healthcare systems due to the costs associated with fracture treatment and long-term care.
History: The term ‘osteoporosis’ was introduced in 1824 by French physician Jean Georges Charcot, although the understanding of the disease has significantly evolved since then. In the 20th century, important advances were made in research on bone density and its relationship with fractures. In 1994, the World Health Organization (WHO) defined osteoporosis as a systemic skeletal disease characterized by low bone mass and deterioration of bone microarchitecture, increasing the risk of fractures. Since then, various guidelines and recommendations have been developed for the prevention and treatment of this condition.
Uses: Osteoporosis is primarily used in the medical field to describe a condition that requires attention and treatment. Physicians use the term to diagnose patients at risk of fractures and to guide treatment, which may include medications, dietary changes, and exercise recommendations. Additionally, it is used in research to study bone health and develop new therapies.
Examples: An example of osteoporosis is a 65-year-old woman who, after a minor fall, suffers a hip fracture. After performing a bone density test, it is determined that she has osteoporosis, which explains the fragility of her bones. Another case could be a 70-year-old man who experiences a vertebral fracture without significant trauma, which may also indicate osteoporosis.
