Introduction

The skeleton is a metabolically active organ that undergoes continuous remodeling throughout life. It not only provides structural integrity and strength to support the body and protect vital organs, but it also stores essential minerals, particularly Ca. The hematopoietic function of bone also changes with aging.

Current information about bone health, osteoporosis, and other metabolic bone disorders is available in a report from the Surgeon General's Office.

This topic was last updated February 2006.