Osteoporosis: a classical age-related disease

Osteoporosis is a common disease characterized by a systemic impairment of bone mass and microarchitecture that results in fragility fractures. With an ageing population, the medical and socioeconomic effect of osteoporosis, particularly postmenopausal osteoporosis, will increase further. Bone loss and osteoporosis with the resultant increase in fracture risk should be major concerns for patients and health care providers. As the population ages, the long term effects of osteoporosis including pain, loss of independence and institutionalized care will become more prevalent. Efforts to prevent bone loss and osteoporosis should start with proper education about a healthy lifestyle, including optimal calcium and vitamin D and exercise in adolescence. This education should continue throughout life, with emphasis during times of increased bone loss such as the menopause transition. This paper reviews the cornerstone of bone health; calcium and vitamin D.