Osteoporosis

Definition

Osteoporosis is a medical condition characterized by fragile bones due to significant loss of bone mass or density. It increases risk for fractures especially in hips, spine and wrists.

Related terms

Menopause:

A natural biological process marking the end of menstrual cycles often associated with increased risk for osteoporosis due to drop in estrogen levels which helps protect against bone loss.

Fracture Risk Assessment Tool (FRAX): A tool used by doctors that predicts an individual’s 10-year probability of having a fracture due to osteoporosis.

Dexa Scan: A test that measures bone mineral density, used to diagnose osteoporosis.