Osteoporosis Reference Guide

Pathophysiology of Osteoporosis

The root cause of Osteoporosis lies in poor bone mass acquisition during growth and accelerated bone loss in the period after peak mass is achieved. Both are quite dependent, however, on environmental and genetic factors.

Most Osteoporosis risk in post-menopausal women is determined by pre-menopausal peak bone mass, which is usually higher in blacks than in Caucasians and Asians, in men. This is why most men and blacks are at less of a risk to develop Osteoporosis.

Half of the body’s bone mass is accumulated during puberty and is associated with the increase in hormone levels that occur during this period. There is minimal accumulation of bone mass in the next 5 to 15 years of development before bone mass finally peaks.

Nutritional Factors

Nutritional factors include calcium, protein, calorie and Vitamin D intake. Increasing dietary intake of milk during adolescence can improve bone mineral accumulation. Low calcium intake during childhood increases risk of Osteoporosis later in the life.

Vitamin D is essential for bone mineral metabolism and calcium absorption. Protein and caloric malnutrition are also factors.

Behavioral Factors

Behavioral factors, such as physical activity, smoking, and alcohol consumption, can increase the risk of developing Osteoporosis.