Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis is an important medical condition which is expensive in morbidity and mortality. Type I osteoporosis affects women 10-15 years after menopause and involves primarily trabecular bone while Type II, senile osteoporosis, results in hip fractures in both sexes. Lifelong calcium intake and physical activity affect peak bone mass and are instrumental in prevention of osteoporosis. Therapy with fluoride, vitamin D, androgens and diphosphonates have been studied and their results and side effects are reviewed.