Osteoporotic fractures of the lumbar spine, hip and distal forearm cause considerable morbidity and mortality amongst postmenopausal women. These fractures occur at least as frequently in Chinese women as in Caucasians. Factors such as oestrogen deficiency, a low dietary calcium intake and a lack ofknowledge about the risk of postmenopausal bone loss contribute to the problem. The administration of hormone replacement therapy is effective in preventing bone loss and also provides cardioprotection and relief from menopausal symptoms. The use of calcium supplements allows a lower dose of oestrogen to be prescribed than when oestrogen is used alone. The combination of oestrogen and calcium may even be effective in replacing lost bone in cases of established osteoporosis.