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Prevalence and burden of osteoporosis
Osteoporosis is a relatively common disease, affecting more women than men. Disease burden is significant, particularly in older individuals, with osteoporotic fractures leading to reduced function and loss of independence.
A complex disorder
Osteoporosis is a complex disorder characterised by an imbalance in the bone remodelling process, which is governed by intricate interactions between various hormones, cytokines and a novel regulatory system. This imbalance leads to lower bone density, which culminates in bone fracture.
Treatment targets
Osteoporosis treatments target different processes within the bone remodelling cycle.
Osteoporosis treatments
Licensed treatments for osteoporosis reduce the risk of fractures, but are associated with various adverse effects — the risks and benefits should be weighed up for each patient. Several novel treatments are in the development pipeline.
References
Sources: International Osteoporosis Foundation; National Osteoporosis Guideline Group; NHS Digital.
Graphics: Alisdair Macdonald (alisdairmacdonald.co.uk).
Editorial advisers: Jon Tobias, Professor of Rheumatology, University of Bristol. Ebraheem Junaid, lead pharmacist medicines information, Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust.
