What term describes bone loss that increases fracture risk in older adults?

What term describes bone loss that increases fracture risk in older adults?

• A. Osteoporosis
• B. Osteitis
• C. Osteomyelitis
• D. Osteogenesis

Answer: (A)

Osteoporosis describes a loss of bone density and deterioration of bone structure that makes bones so fragile that even minor stresses or falls can cause fractures. This weakening of the bone tissue is common in older adults, especially after menopause when estrogen helps regulate bone remodeling. Because bones become less dense and more porous, the risk of fractures—such as in the hip, spine, or wrist—increases significantly. The other terms refer to different conditions: inflammation of bone, a bone infection, and the process of bone formation, none of which describe the general loss of bone density that leads to higher fracture risk.

Osteoporosis describes a loss of bone density and deterioration of bone structure that makes bones so fragile that even minor stresses or falls can cause fractures. This weakening of the bone tissue is common in older adults, especially after menopause when estrogen helps regulate bone remodeling. Because bones become less dense and more porous, the risk of fractures—such as in the hip, spine, or wrist—increases significantly. The other terms refer to different conditions: inflammation of bone, a bone infection, and the process of bone formation, none of which describe the general loss of bone density that leads to higher fracture risk.