Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis is a bone disease. Reduced calcium salt content (bone density) results in an increased risk of bone fractures.

Decreasing bone density

Various hormones are involved regulating bone metabolism. Disruptions in the hormone balance therefore lead to changes in bone density. Other diseases, such as kidney or liver dysfunction, can also increase the risk of osteoporosis.

Main risk group: post-menopausal women

Age is also a risk factor for decreasing bone density. It is estimated that one in three post-menopausal women suffers from osteoporosis, but it also affects one in five men over the age of 50.

Bone density measurement

Bone density is measured using a special X-ray procedure (DXA measurement), usually in the lumbar spine and femoral necks. Depending on the findings and risk factors, further diagnostic and, if necessary, therapeutic measures will follow.

You can find more information on bone densitometry in our patient brochure Osteodensitometry (bone density measurement).