osteoporosis
UK: ˌɒstɪəʊpəˈrəʊsɪs | US: ˌɑːstioʊpəˈroʊsɪs
n. A medical condition in which bones become weak and brittle due to tissue loss, often caused by hormonal changes or calcium/vitamin D deficiency.
The word "osteoporosis" originates from Greek, combining "osteo-" (ὀστέον, meaning "bone"), "-por-" (πόρος, meaning "passage" or "pore"), and "-osis" (a suffix denoting a pathological condition). The term literally describes a "porous bone" state, reflecting the disease's hallmark of reduced bone density and microarchitectural deterioration. The logic is straightforward: "bone" + "holes/passages" + "disease" = a condition where bones develop excessive porosity.
Postmenopausal women are at higher risk of developing osteoporosis due to decreased estrogen levels.
Calcium and vitamin D supplements can help prevent osteoporosis in elderly patients.
The doctor recommended a bone density scan to check for early signs of osteoporosis.
Weight-bearing exercises like walking may slow the progression of osteoporosis.
Severe osteoporosis can lead to fractures even from minor falls.