Osteoporosis (say: oss-tee-oh-puh-RO-sis) is a disease that weakens the bones, causing them to become brittle and easily fractured. It mostly affects older people, and women are much more likely to develop it than men. More to Know Bones are made up of spongy living tissue that is constantly breaking down and rebuilding. When bone growth can't keep up with bone loss, osteoporosis occurs. Bone loss is largely due to age, but also can be a result of hormone problems, poor diet, certain medications, and excessive alcohol or tobacco use. People with osteoporosis may fracture their hips, wrist, or spine. They may also have back pain, poor posture, and a decrease in height. Treatment for osteoporosis usually includes medications, vitamin D, and calcium supplements to improve bone density. Diet and exercise, especially weight training, can also help strengthen bones. Avoiding hazards that can cause falls is always good practice for someone with osteoporosis. Keep in Mind Exercising regularly and eating a calcium-rich diet (milk, cheese, yogurt, green leafy vegetables, fortified orange juice, etc.) is the best way for kids and teens to build healthy, strong bones now to avoid osteoporosis later. All A to Z dictionary entries are regularly reviewed by KidsHealth medical experts. Back to Articles Related Articles 5 Reasons for Girls to Play Sports Playing organized sports can help girls do better off the field as well as on. Find out how. Read More Bones, Muscles, and Joints Our bones, muscles, and joints form our musculoskeletal system and enable us to do everyday physical activities. Read More Bones, Muscles, and Joints Without bones, muscles, and joints, we couldn't stand, walk, run, or even sit. The musculoskeletal system supports our bodies, protects our organs from injury, and enables movement. Read More Calcium Your parents were right to make you drink milk when you were little. It's loaded with calcium, a mineral vital for building strong bones and teeth. Read More Calcium Milk and other calcium-rich foods help build strong, healthy bones. But most kids and teens don't get enough calcium. Here's how to make sure that yours do. Read More Your Bones Where would you be without your bones? Learn more about the skeletal system in this article for kids. Read More Nutrition & Fitness Center Visit our nutrition and fitness center for teens to get information and advice on food, exercise, and sports. Read More Nutrition & Fitness Center You know the importance of exercising and eating nutritious foods, but do you know how to raise a healthy and active child? Get practical advice and tips. Read More Nutrition & Fitness Center Want to know more about eating right and being active? This is the place! Read More Note: All information is for educational purposes only. For specific medical advice, diagnoses, and treatment, consult your doctor. © 1995-2021 KidsHealth®. All rights reserved. Images provided by The Nemours Foundation, iStock, Getty Images, Veer, Shutterstock, and Clipart.com.