Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan of the spine of a 77-year-old female patient with osteoporosis. The scan shows a fracture in vertebra T12 and compression of vertebra L1. Osteoporosis describes a reduction in bone density, resulting in an increase in brittleness and a greater risk of fractures, particularly of the vertebrae and the head of the femur. Its higher incidence in women is attributed to a decline in hormone production following the menopause. A diet rich in calcium and regular weight-bearing exercise can help prevent osteoporosis.