As a medical professional with a focus on osteoporosis, I can provide you with a comprehensive understanding of who is susceptible to this condition and the reasons behind it. Step 1: English Answer Osteoporosis is a condition characterized by the weakening of bones, making them more prone to fractures. It is a silent disease, often referred to as the "silent thief of height" because it can progress without noticeable symptoms until a bone breaks. Anyone can develop osteoporosis, but certain groups are at a higher risk. Women are indeed about four times more likely than men to develop osteoporosis, and this increased risk is primarily due to two main factors: 1. Hormonal Changes: The most significant risk factor for women is the process of bone loss that accelerates after menopause. When a woman reaches menopause, her ovaries cease to produce the female sex hormone oestrogen. Estrogen plays a crucial role in maintaining bone density, and its decline can lead to a rapid loss of bone mass. 2. Bone Density: Women generally have a lower peak bone mass compared to men, which means they have less bone to lose before osteoporosis sets in. This is another reason why women are more susceptible to the disease. However, it's important to note that osteoporosis is not exclusive to women. Men can also develop osteoporosis, particularly if they have a family history of the disease, take certain medications that can affect bone health, or have a medical condition that leads to bone loss. Other risk factors for developing osteoporosis include: - Age: As people age, bone loss is a natural process. The risk increases significantly after the age of 50. - Family History: If a person has a family history of osteoporosis, they are at a higher risk. - **Smoking and Excessive Alcohol Consumption**: Both can interfere with bone health and increase the risk of osteoporosis. - Physical Inactivity: Lack of exercise can lead to bone loss. - Nutritional Deficiencies: Not getting enough calcium and vitamin D can weaken bones. - Certain Medications: Long-term use of corticosteroids and other medications can affect bone density. - Chronic Health Conditions: Diseases like rheumatoid arthritis and hyperthyroidism can lead to bone loss. Prevention and treatment of osteoporosis involve a combination of a healthy diet rich in calcium and vitamin D, regular weight-bearing exercise, and possibly medication to slow bone loss or increase bone density. Step 2: Divider read more >>

Anyone can get osteoporosis but women are about four times more likely than men to develop it. There are two main reasons for this: The process of bone loss speeds up for several years after the menopause, when the ovaries stop producing the female sex hormone oestrogen.read more >>