osteoporosis

[ os-tee-oh-puh-roh-sis ]

noun

, Pathology.

1. a disorder in which the bones become increasingly porous, brittle, and subject to fracture, owing to loss of calcium and other mineral components, sometimes resulting in pain, decreased height, and skeletal deformities: common in older persons, primarily postmenopausal women, but also associated with long-term steroid therapy and certain endocrine disorders.

osteoporosis

/ ˌɒstɪəʊpɔːˈrəʊsɪs /

noun

1. porosity and brittleness of the bones due to loss of calcium from the bone matrix

osteoporosis

/ ŏs′tē-ō-pə-rō′sĭs /

1. A bone disease characterized by decrease in bone mass and density, resulting in a predisposition to fractures and bone deformities such as the collapse of one or more vertebrae. It occurs most commonly in women after menopause as a result of estrogen deficiency. Calcium supplementation and weight-bearing exercise are used to treat and prevent osteoporosis.

osteoporosis

1. A softening of the bones that gradually increases and makes them more fragile. It is caused by the gradual loss of the mineral calcium, which helps make bones hard. Osteoporosis occurs most often in elderly women.

Notes

Many experts now believe that osteoporosis can be prevented through regular exercise, mineral supplements, and a diet high in calcium.

Derived Forms

• ˌosteopoˈrotic, adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of osteoporosis¹

First recorded in 1840–50; osteo- + Greek pór(os) “passage” ( pore ² ) + -osis

Word History and Origins

Origin of osteoporosis¹

C19: from osteo- + pore ² + -osis

Example Sentences

Common risks for adults with cerebral palsy can include the early onset of secondary conditions such as osteoporosis, hypertension, diabetes and psychiatric disorders.

From Science Daily

A hysterectomy would leave Emily infertile and prompt the menopause, which in turn could increase her risk of osteoporosis, heart disease and dementia.

From BBC

While gyms and fitness studios closed during early stay-at-home orders, many slow-motion strength training studios remained open because they offered an essential rehabilitative service: weight-bearing physical therapy for pain management, osteoporosis and other conditions.

From Los Angeles Times

And HRT actually reduced the risk of fractures linked to the bone condition osteoporosis, which is more likely to develop after the menopause.

From BBC

Kirsty has osteoporosis, which made her work difficult, and also found it too expensive living in Essex.

From BBC