Final answer:
Osteoporosis is a bone disorder characterized by an imbalance between bone formation and resorption, leading to decreased bone density and increased fracture risk. Various factors like aging, hormonal changes, inadequate nutrient intake, and poor lifestyle habits can contribute to this condition.
Step-by-step explanation:
Osteoporosis is a bone disorder characterized by a decrease in bone mass that occurs when the rate of bone resorption exceeds the rate of bone formation. This imbalance between bone formation and resorption can be caused by various factors such as aging, hormonal changes (such as lack of estrogen), inadequate nutrient intake (calcium and vitamin D deficiency), and poor lifestyle habits (smoking, alcohol consumption, lack of exercise). These factors lead to distinct changes in the bone, including reduced bone density and increased susceptibility to fractures.
In the context of the skeletal system, it's important to distinguish osteoporosis from Paget's disease. Whereas osteoporosis involves an imbalance with an excess of bone resorption over formation, Paget's disease is characterized by overactive osteoclasts and the formation of new bone that is haphazardly organized and brittle, leading to an increased risk of fractures.