Why does prolonged glucocorticoid treatment, such as for chronic asthma, increase the risk of osteoporosis?

💡 Explanation

Glucocorticoids reduce intestinal calcium absorption because they inhibit vitamin D activation, which is crucial for calcium uptake. Therefore, decreased calcium leads to increased parathyroid hormone secretion and bone resorption, rather than direct bone mineralization or hormonal effects, ultimately increasing osteoporosis risk.

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