ABSTRACT
Osteoporosis is a disease characterised by low bone mass and the microarchitectural deterioration of bone tissue leading to an increase in bone fragility and the consequent risk of fracture. Osteoporosis affects 8 to 10 million people in the United States and leads to approximately 1.5 million fractures annually (Melton III, 1995); it is one of the most debilitating and costly diseases of modern society, placing a huge strain on the National Health Service and its resources. The current major public health strategy is to emphasise preventing rather than treating osteoporosis. The aims are to enhance peak bone mass and reduce bone loss during early to late adulthood (International Federation of Sports Medicine, 2000).
