General Overview

Osteoporosis is a disease in which bones become weak and brittle. If left unchecked, osteoporosis can progress painlessly until a bone breaks (fracture).

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InDepth

Find answers in our in-depth report on osteoporosis:

• What is osteoporosis?
• What are the risk factors?
• What are the symptoms?
• How is it diagnosed?
• How is it treated?
• What are the screening tests?
• How can I reduce my risk?
• What should I ask my healthcare provider about osteoporosis?

Diagnostic and Surgical Procedures

• Fracture reduction

Living With Osteoporosis

Preventing Osteoporosis

Bone mineral density (BMD) testing is a way to get checked for osteoporosis. Though a BMD test may not be appropriate for everyone, it may provide an important prevention opportunity. Read more here.

Treating and preventing osteoporosis

Get some basic information about osteoporosis and learn about the controversy surrounding hormone use in preventing bone loss.

Special Topics

Osteoporosis, breast cancer, and eating disorders: not just for women

Find out what can put a man at risk for osteoporosis and what preventive measures can be taken.

Osteoporosis is becoming an increasing concern among men. Read more here.

Calcium is essential to build and maintain strong bones at all stages of life, and therefore help prevent and/or manage osteoporosis. Read more here.

True or False?

There have been research studies on dietary intake and its relation to the bone health of young girls, the results of which have been mixed. But overall, it seems reasonable to conclude that school-age girls who drink a lot of carbonated soft drinks are increasing their risk of osteoporosis.

Natural and Alternative Treatments (By Condition)

• Osteoporosis