Composites Hydroxyapatite with Addition of Zirconium Phase

Osteoporosis is a disease in which the density and quality of bone are reduced, leading to weakness of the skeleton and increased risk of fracture. Osteoporosis literally means "porous bone". When a bone has become osteoporotic or osteopenic (low bone mass), the risk of a fracture increases. The forearm, spine and hip are the most common fracture sites, accounting for more than 80 percent of all fractures. Osteoporosis and associated fractures are an important cause of mortality and morbidity. 20 percent of hip fractures lead to death within a year. Osteoporosis is a widespread public health problem. The costs to national healthcare systems from osteoporosis-related hospitalization are staggering. In the US, the cost to the health care system associated with osteoporotic fractures is approximately $17 billion annually. This converts to more than $45 million a day! Each hip fracture represents an estimated $40,000 in total medical costs.