OSTEOPOROSIS Meaning and
Definition
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Osteoporosis is a medical condition characterized by decreased bone mass and deterioration of bone tissue, leading to brittle and fragile bones. It is a progressive skeletal disorder that results from an imbalance in the bone remodeling process where bones constantly break down and rebuild themselves. However, in individuals with osteoporosis, bones break down more rapidly than they form, resulting in weak bones that are more prone to fractures and injuries.
This condition primarily affects older adults, particularly postmenopausal women, as a consequence of hormonal changes. Additionally, it can also be triggered by certain medical conditions, lifestyle factors, and medications. Osteoporosis often progresses silently and may only become noticeable when a fracture occurs. Common sites of fractures due to osteoporosis include the hip, spine, and wrist.
Signs and symptoms of osteoporosis may include gradual height loss, back pain, stooped posture, and an increased susceptibility to fractures. The diagnosis of osteoporosis is made through bone density testing, where specialized imaging techniques assess the strength and density of bones.
Management and treatment of osteoporosis involve a combination of lifestyle modifications, pharmacological interventions, and possibly hormone replacement therapy. Preventive measures include regular exercise, a balanced diet rich in calcium and vitamin D, avoidance of smoking and excessive alcohol consumption, and falls prevention strategies.
In conclusion, osteoporosis is a chronic condition characterized by reduced bone density, leading to fragile bones that are susceptible to fractures. Its prevention and treatment strategies aim to improve bone health and reduce the risk of fractures.
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1. A disease of bone marked by increased porosity from widening of the Haversian canals and softness from absorption of the calcareous material. 2. In horses and other Equidoe a specific disease marked by enlargement of the softened and porous bone; big-head, swelled head.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
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Etymology of OSTEOPOROSIS
The word "osteoporosis" is derived from Greek roots. "Osteo-" comes from the Greek word "osteon", which means "bone". "-porosis" is derived from the Greek word "poros", which means "passage" or "pore". So, when combined, "osteoporosis" literally means "porous bones". The term was first introduced in medical literature in the early 19th century to describe a condition characterized by decreased bone mass and increased susceptibility to fractures.
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