Understanding Osteoporosis

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It is no secret that the skeletal system is a vital part to the body. The bones that made up the skeletal system are responsible for movement, protection, and of course framework of the body. Bones rely on nutrients such as calcium, Vitamin D, and magnesium. When the bone become weak and can no longer work properly, this is known as osteoporosis.

There are a number of diseases that affect the bone/skeletal system however osteoporosis has the most debilitating reputation. Osteoporosis is a disease that weakens bones, increasing the risk of serious fractures. The diseases occurs when bone production becomes unbalanced. Fractures cause by osteoporosis can lead to breakage in hands, arms, legs, the waist, as well as the spine. Osteoporosis is the most common type of bone disease. It can develop in any person regardless of gender, race, or age. Several physicians and medical researchers have been credited with the discovery of the disease; however the first person to mention it was physician and surgeon Sir Astley Pastron Cooper (1768-1841). His works in regards to the disease was his realization of a link between fractures and bone strength (bone density).Other scientists responsible for other discoveries regarding the disease include Jean Lobstein and Fuller Albright
It has been found that osteoporosis occurs most frequently in women over age 50 and post –menopausal, are Caucasian or of Asian descent, family history of the disease, and/or are thin/petite in size. Smoking, drinking alcohol and use of certain medications has also been found to increase risk of developing the disease. Osteoporosis had often been linked to other bodily malfunctions such as diabetes, lupus rheuma...

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...of women aged 90. For the year 2010, there were an estimated 9 million new osteoporotic fractures, 1.6 million were at the hip, 1.7 million were at the arm and 1.4 million were vertebral/spine fractures. Most are successfully controlled (however not cured).

As a medical student, I have done previous research regarding the disease (however not as in depth).I also currently have three family members dealing with the disease. Osteoporosis is a very serious disease due to its ability to hinder quality of life for victims affected by it .However, early detection and treatment has been proven to prevent spread of the disease. Research regarding osteoporosis is currently being conducted at several labs and university all around the world and more treatment is currently in development.

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