The World Health Organization (WHO) has defined osteoporosis as 2.5 standard deviations below the bone density of a young adult reference population. Dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) is the most commonly used technique to measure bone density. As the average age of people in the United States increases, more problems such as hip and vertebral compression fractures result from osteoporosis.

Osteoporosis is responsible for an estimated 1.5 million fractures annually (700,000 vertebral fractures). In addition to accidental bone fractures, surgical procedures performed on an osteoporotic patient become more complicated.

Osteoporosis can be prevented! To maximize peak bone mass, which is generally reached between 20 and 25 years of age, a recommendation is made of 1200 mg calcium and 800 IU of vitamin D per day for 11-24 year old individuals. Medical management for ages 25-50/menopause is bone maintenance and is attempted by supplements of dietary calcium intake of 1000 mg and vitamin D intake of 400 IU per day. For peri or post menopausal women a combination therapy of estrogen replacement therapy, anti-resorptive agents, as well as calcium intake of 15mg/per day are usually recommended. A regular program of exercise throughout life is always recommended to resist the onset of osteoporosis, especially in those with a sedentary life style.