ABSTRACT
Osteoporosis is currently defined as a skeletal disorder characterized by compromised bone strength predisposing a person to an increased risk of fracture1. Bone strength primarily reflects the integration of bone quality and bone density. Bone quality refers to architecture, turnover, damage accumulation and mineralization. Bone density is expressed as grams of mineral per area or volume, and in a given individual is determined by peak bone mass and amount of bone loss. A fracture occurs when a failure-inducing force such as trauma is applied to osteoporotic bone. Thus, osteoporosis is a significant risk factor for fracture, and a distinction between risk factors that affect bone metabolism and the risk factors for fracture must be made.
