Which population is most commonly affected by osteoporosis?

The population most commonly affected by osteoporosis is the elderly, particularly women. This is primarily due to hormonal changes associated with aging, especially during and after menopause, when estrogen levels significantly decline. Estrogen plays a critical role in maintaining bone density; thus, its reduction can lead to increased bone resorption and a decrease in bone formation, ultimately resulting in osteoporosis.

Elderly women are particularly vulnerable because they generally have lower bone mass compared to men and face a higher risk of fractures due to thinner bones. Additionally, sedentary lifestyles often prevalent in this demographic can exacerbate bone loss, making regular weight-bearing and resistance exercises essential for maintaining bone health.

Although children with vitamin deficiencies may have weakened bones, they do not typically develop osteoporosis as a condition characterized by low bone density; rather, they might experience poorer bone growth. Obese individuals and athletes also tend to have stronger bones due to higher levels of physical activity and weight-bearing forces that stimulate bone formation, which contrasts with the osteoporosis risk seen in sedentary, elderly women.