Final answer:
Osteopenia causes a gradual reduction in bone mass, more commonly affecting women post-menopause due to decreased estrogen levels. Prevention includes adequate calcium and vitamin D intake and weight-bearing exercise starting in childhood.
Step-by-step explanation:
Osteopenia and its Effects
The condition known as osteopenia causes a gradual reduction in bone mass. Osteopenia can lead to osteoporosis, a more severe bone disease. As indicated in various studies, bone mass tends to decrease as people age, with women being more affected than men, especially after the age of 50 due to menopause-related estrogen decline. This hormonal change diminishes osteoblastic activity, which is critical for bone matrix production. Consequently, osteoporosis is more prevalent among women, although men are also susceptible. The prevention of osteoporosis involves a diet rich in calcium and vitamin D from childhood, along with weight-bearing exercises to maximize bone mass before the age of 30 and reduce the risk of later bone density loss