Osteoporosis: A Multifactorial Disease

Abstract

Examines the current understanding of the causes of osteoporosis, which include genetic factors, gender, age, inadequate consumption of calcium, inadequate exposure to ultraviolet light coupled with inadequate consumption of Vitamin D, lack of exercise, hormonal deficiency, smoking and alcohol and caffeine consumption. There is a complex interrelationship between all these factors which results in a low peak bone mass prior to the onset of the menopause. An accelerated rate of loss of bone at this stage results in fragile bones in many women who become susceptible to fractures of the pelvis, vertebrae and distal forearm. An examination of the diet of the UK population indicates that, although the current consumption of calcium and Vitamin D appears to be adequate to prevent deficiency diseases, there are substantial subsections of the population whose diet or lifestyle indicate a major risk of developing osteoporosis in later life. In view of these factors it would be prudent to encourage children and young people to develop the habit of taking enjoyable exercise to continue through life, and that older women might consider a combination of HRT, exercise and a diet higher in calcium and Vitamin D than currently recommended.

Citation

Webster, K. (1994), "Osteoporosis: A Multifactorial Disease", Nutrition & Food Science, Vol. 94 No. 2, pp. 11-16. https://doi.org/10.1108/00346659310051151