International Journal of TROPICAL DISEASE & Health

This paper did a review of literature on osteoporosis, the risk factors, the consequences, and the prevention through the synergy of diet, exercises and appropriate lifestyle modification. Osteoporosis is a condition in which bones become dangerously thin and fragile over time. Fractures are the most serious consequence of osteoporosis, and up to 20% of all people who suffer a hip fracture die within a year. Other problems associated with osteoporosis are loss of height and a stooped posture due to vertebral fractures, severe back and hip pain, and breathing problems caused by changes in the shapes of the skeleton. Women are at greater risk than men for osteoporosis because they have 10 – 25% less bone in their skeletons. Women’s bones become dangerously thin sooner than men’s bones after Menopause when oestrogen production is diminished. Oestrogen improves calcium absorption and reduces the amount of calcium the body excretes. Preventing osteoporosis requires building as much bone as possible during ones young years and then maintaining it as one age. Diet and exercises also play key roles. Other life style modifications, such as abstaining from cigarette smoking, and alcohol consumption are imperative in preventing osteoporosis.