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Healthy bone versus bone weakened by osteoporosis

Illustration copyright 2004 Nucleus Communications, Inc. All rights reserved. http://www.nucleusinc.com

Osteoporosis is a progressive disease that causes bones to become thin and porous, significantly increasing the risk for spinal and hip fractures. Osteoporosis usually does not have an effect on people until they are 60 or older.

Primary Medical Reviewer Joy Melnikow, MD, MPH
- Family Medicine
Specialist Medical Reviewer Carla J. Herman, MD, MPH
- Internal Medicine
Last Updated December 1, 2006

WebMD Medical Reference from Healthwise

Last Updated: December 01, 2006
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