How are osteopenia and osteoporosis related?

• A. Osteopenia is the milder form of bone loss in adulthood that can progress to osteoporosis in old age.
• B. Osteopenia is when there is an issue with the cortical bone tissue while osteoporosis is when there is an issue with the trabecular bone tissue.
• C. Osteopenia is a disorder related to phosphorous consumption while osteoporosis is a disorder related to calcium consumption.
• D. Osteopenia is a disorder of collagen while osteoporosis is a disorder of hydroxyapatite.

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the definitions of osteopenia and osteoporosis: Osteopenia refers to a condition where bone mineral density (BMD) is lower than normal but not low enough to be classified as osteoporosis. Osteoporosis is a more severe condition characterized by significantly reduced BMD and increased risk of fractures.
2. Recognize the progression: Osteopenia is often considered a precursor to osteoporosis. If bone loss continues unchecked, osteopenia can progress to osteoporosis, especially in older adults.
3. Differentiate between cortical and trabecular bone: Cortical bone is the dense outer layer of bone, while trabecular bone is the spongy inner structure. Both types of bone can be affected by osteoporosis, but trabecular bone is more metabolically active and thus more susceptible to rapid bone loss.
4. Clarify the role of nutrients: Both calcium and phosphorus are essential for bone health. However, osteoporosis is primarily associated with calcium deficiency, while osteopenia is not directly linked to phosphorus consumption.
5. Understand the structural components: Collagen provides the framework for bone strength, while hydroxyapatite (a mineral form of calcium phosphate) gives bone its hardness. Neither osteopenia nor osteoporosis is specifically a disorder of collagen or hydroxyapatite, but both involve a reduction in overall bone mass and quality.