Aging has two primary effects on bone tissue: loss of bone mass and brittleness. Loss of bone mass results from demineralization, the loss of calcium and other minerals from bone extracellular matrix, which typically begins after age 30 in females and accelerates with decreasing estrogen levels. This can lead to deformity, pain, loss of height, and loss of teeth. Brittleness is caused by a decreased rate of protein synthesis, making bones more susceptible to fracture. Factors such as mineral deficiencies, vitamin deficiencies, hormone changes, and aging itself contribute to the increased risk of osteoporosis in females.