Which condition causes bones to become porous and brittle, increasing fracture risk?

• A. Osteoporosis
• B. Osteopenia
• C. Osteoarthritis
• D. Osteomyelitis

Answer: (A)

This question centers on how loss of bone density leads to bones becoming fragile and more prone to breaks. In osteoporosis, bone resorption outpaces bone formation, causing a meaningful drop in bone mass and deterioration of the bone’s internal structure. The result is porous, brittle bones that can fracture with minimal trauma, especially in the spine, hip, or wrist. Osteopenia is a milder reduction in bone density that can progress to osteoporosis but isn’t yet defined by the same level of fragility. Osteoarthritis involves joint cartilage wear and does not primarily reflect bone density loss, and osteomyelitis is an infection of bone with symptoms like pain, swelling, and fever rather than a generalized thinning of bone. Understanding osteoporosis explains why maintaining adequate calcium and vitamin D, engaging in weight-bearing activity, and appropriate medical treatment are key to reducing fracture risk.