Which of the following is most commonly implicated in the development of osteoporosis in older women?

• A. Increased vitamin D production
• B. Elevated testosterone levels
• C. Decreased estrogen levels after menopause
• D. Excessive calcium intake

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the biological context: Osteoporosis is a condition characterized by weakened bones and increased risk of fractures. It is commonly associated with hormonal changes, particularly in older women after menopause.
2. Recognize the role of estrogen: Estrogen is a hormone that plays a critical role in maintaining bone density by regulating the activity of osteoblasts (cells that build bone) and osteoclasts (cells that break down bone). After menopause, estrogen levels decrease significantly.
3. Connect decreased estrogen levels to osteoporosis: The reduction in estrogen leads to an imbalance in bone remodeling, where bone resorption (breakdown) outpaces bone formation, resulting in a net loss of bone density.
4. Evaluate the other options: Increased vitamin D production, elevated testosterone levels, and excessive calcium intake are not commonly implicated in the development of osteoporosis in older women. Vitamin D and calcium are essential for bone health, but their excessive levels are not typically linked to osteoporosis. Testosterone is more relevant to male physiology and bone health.
5. Conclude that decreased estrogen levels after menopause are the most commonly implicated factor in the development of osteoporosis in older women, based on the biological mechanisms and hormonal changes associated with aging.