Osteoporosis causes bones to become weak and brittle. In some instances, bones become so brittle that a fall or even mild stresses such as bending over or coughing can cause a fracture. Osteoporosis-related fractures occur in the hip, wrist, or spine. There typically are no symptoms in the early stages of bone loss. Women are much more likely to develop osteoporosis than men.

While no cure exists for osteoporosis, care providers can prescribe treatment to prevent the illness from progressing further including dietary supplements, healthy lifestyle choices, or prescription medication.

Guest: Teréza Hough - CEO of the National Osteoporosis Foundation South Africa