Definition: A chronic disease in which a loss of bone mineral and protein content results in porous, fragile bone that is prone to fracture. An age-related disease in menopause, osteoporosis can manifest itself sooner in women who have risk factors.
Pronunciation: os-tee-oh-por-OH-sis
Also Known As: porous bone disease;
Examples: The risk of osteoporosis is higher after menopause because estrogen helps bones hang on to their mineral content.