What condition is characterized by loss of bone density?

Osteoporosis is a condition specifically characterized by a significant reduction in bone density, leading to an increased risk of fractures. This condition occurs when the creation of new bone doesn’t keep up with the removal of old bone. As bone density decreases, bones become porous and brittle, making them more susceptible to breaks, even from minor falls or injuries.

In contrast, osteopenia, while also a condition involving lower than normal bone density, is considered a precursor to osteoporosis and does not usually entail the same level of risk or severity. Osteomalacia refers to the softening of bones due to a vitamin D deficiency, impacting bone mineralization rather than density per se. Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disorder that primarily causes inflammation in the joints and may indirectly affect bone density but is not primarily characterized by loss of bone density itself.

Therefore, osteoporosis stands out as the condition directly linked with significant loss of bone density, highlighting its serious implications for skeletal health.