Final answer:
Osteoporosis is caused by the loss of calcium and phosphate from bones due to an imbalance between bone-building osteoblasts and bone-resorbing osteoclasts. Factors like aging and hormonal changes are contributing factors, with prevention focusing on diet and exercise.
Step-by-step explanation:
Osteoporosis is a bone disease caused by the loss of calcium and phosphate from bones, resulting in decreased bone density. This condition is where bones become weak and brittle due to an imbalance between bone formation by osteoblasts and bone resorption by osteoclasts. Factors like aging, hormonal changes, diseases, medications, and lifestyle choices such as diet, smoking, alcohol consumption, and lack of exercise contribute to this imbalance, leading to osteoporosis. In women, the risk increases after menopause when estrogen levels, which promote bone formation, decrease significantly. To help prevent osteoporosis, it is recommended to have a diet rich in calcium and vitamin D and engage in weight-bearing exercises, particularly before the age of 30.