DefinitionOsteomalacia is softening of the bones due to a lack of vitamin D or a problem with the body's ability to break down and use this vitamin.Causes, incidence, and risk factorsThe softer bones seen in persons with osteomalacia have a normal amount of collagen, which gives the bones its structure, but lack the proper amount of calcium.There are numerous causes of osteomalacia. In children, the condition is called rickets and is usually caused by low levels of vitamin D.Other conditions that may lead to osteomalacia include:Not enough vitamin D in the dietNot enough exposure to sunlight, which produces vitamin D in the bodyMalabsorptionof vitamin D by the intestinesUse of very strong sunscreen, limited exposure of the body to sunlight, short days of sunlight, and smog are factors that