Final answer:
Fractures are broken bones usually caused by excessive stress on the bone, with osteoporosis being a common cause among the elderly due to weakened bones. The condition leads to bones breaking easily even after minor trauma. Prevention includes diet rich in calcium and vitamin D and regular exercise.
Step-by-step explanation:
Causes of Bone Fractures
Fractures are essentially broken bones, and they are usually the result of an excess amount of bending stress applied to the bone, similar to how bending a pencil too far causes it to snap. Osteoporosis is a well-known cause of such fractures, especially among the elderly. This condition leads to a reduction in bone mass and strength, thereby increasing the likelihood of fractures from minor incidents or even spontaneously, without any significant stress. Among the options provided, A) A high-fat diet is not directly associated with fractures, B) Hypertension more commonly affects the circulatory system rather than bones, C) Osteoporosis is the most common cause of fractures in the elderly due to weakened bones, and D) Dermatitis is a skin condition, unrelated to bone strength.
Osteoporotic fractures can be extremely dangerous, often causing pain, disability, and in some cases, early mortality due to complications. Bones most affected by osteoporosis include the femur, vertebrae, and wrist. Osteoporosis is characterized by a decrease in the thickness of the compact bone and a reduction in the number and size of trabeculae, which are the small, mesh-like structures that create the spongy tissue in bones.
Preventing osteoporosis and related fractures can be achieved by maintaining a diet rich in calcium and vitamin D, alongside regular weight-bearing exercises. Food sources such as milk, yogurt, and leafy greens provide essential nutrients for maintaining bone health. For those already suffering from this condition, medical intervention may include medications known as bisphosphonates, hormone therapy, and in the event of a fracture, possibly surgical repair with the use of metal pins to stabilize the bone.