Osteoporosis Risk Factors
Certain osteoporosis risk factors are linked to the development of osteoporosis and contribute to an individual´s likelihood of developing the disease. Many people with osteoporosis have several risk factors, but others who develop the disease have no known risk factors. There are some you cannot change and others you can.
osteoporosis risk factors you cannot change
Gender
Your chances of developing osteoporosis are greater if you are a woman. Women have less bone tissue and lose bone faster than men because of the changes that happen with menopause.
Age
The older you are, the greater your risk of osteoporosis. Your bones become thinner and weaker as you age.
Body size
Small, thin-boned women are at greater risk.
Ethnicity
Caucasian and Asian women are at highest risk. African American and Hispanic women have a lower but significant risk.
Family history
Fracture risk may be due, in part, to heredity. People whose parents have a history of fractures also seem to have reduced bone mass and may be at risk for fractures.
osteoporosis risk factors you can change
Sex hormones
Abnormal absence of menstrual periods (amenorrhea), low estrogen level (menopause), and low testosterone level in men can bring on osteoporosis.
Anorexia nervosa
Characterized by an irrational fear of weight gain, this eating disorder increases your risk for osteoporosis.
Calcium and vitamin D intake
A lifetime diet low in calcium and vitamin D makes you more prone to bone loss.
Medication use
Long-term use of glucocorticoids and some anticonvulsants can lead to loss of bone density and fractures.
Lifestyle
An inactive lifestyle or extended bed rest tends to weaken bones.
Cigarette smoking
Cigarettes are bad for bones as well as the heart and lungs.
Alcohol intake
Excessive consumption increases the risk of bone loss and fractures.