Are You at Risk for Osteoporosis?

There are many factors that determine who will develop osteoporosis. Certain people are more likely to develop osteoporosis than others. The risk factors that increase the likelihood of developing osteoporosis are noted below.

• Women have a greater risk of developing osteoporosis because women have less bone tissue and lose bone more rapidly than men.
• Women older than age 45 or 50.
• Early menopause.
• Women who stop menstruating before menopause because of conditions such as anorexia or bulimia, or because of excessive physical exercise.
• Caucasian and Asian females, especially petite or small-boned women.
• Chronic, long-term steroid use.
• History of hip fractures on mother’s side of the family.
• Sedentary lifestyle with little or no weight-bearing exercise.
• Low calcium intake – less than 1,000 mg/day for adults.
• Alcohol abuse.
• Cigarette smoking.
• High caffeine intake.

It is important to speak with your doctor regarding your risk for developing osteoporosis and to determine if you are in need of a Bone Density Test.

Reference: National Osteoporosis Foundation

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