What is the primary consequence of osteoporosis?

The primary consequence of osteoporosis is the loss of trabecular and cortical bone mass. Osteoporosis is a condition characterized by a decrease in bone density and quality, leading to bones that are more fragile and susceptible to fractures. This loss happens because the bone remodeling process, where old bone is replaced by new bone, becomes imbalanced. In osteoporosis, bone resorption (the process of breaking down bone) outpaces bone formation, resulting in a net loss of bone mass.

Trabecular bone, which is spongy and found at the ends of long bones, as well as inside the vertebrae, is particularly affected because it is more metabolically active and responds more rapidly to changes in bone turnover. Cortical bone, the dense outer layer of bone, is also compromised, leading to overall structural weakening. The loss of both types of bone mass contributes to the increased risk of fractures even from minor falls or injuries, making this the hallmark of osteoporosis.