Osteopenia is a condition where a person’s bones become weaker than they should be but not so weak that they break easily. It is considered a precursor to osteoporosis, a condition where bones become so brittle and porous that they break easily.

Osteopenia and osteoporosis are becoming more common, with an estimated 54 million Americans aged 50 or older having either condition, according to the National Osteoporosis Foundation.

What are the risk factors for osteopenia?

Several factors can put you at risk for developing osteopenia, including:.

1. Age

As people age, their bones become less dense, brittle, and weaker.

2. Genetics

Your risk of developing osteopenia and osteoporosis is higher if your parents or siblings have these conditions.

3. Gender

Women are more likely than men to develop osteopenia and osteoporosis because they have smaller and lighter bones. They also lose bone density more rapidly than men during the first few years after menopause.

4. Ethnicity

Caucasian and Asian women are at higher risk of developing osteopenia and osteoporosis than women of other ethnicities.

5. Hormonal factors

A lack of estrogen or testosterone can cause bones to become weak and brittle. Women who have had their ovaries removed or who have gone through menopause are at a higher risk of developing osteopenia and osteoporosis.

6. Lifestyle factors

Poor lifestyle choices can also increase the risk of developing osteopenia. Smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and low calcium and vitamin D intake all contribute to weaker bones.

7. Medical conditions

Certain medical conditions, such as Cushing’s syndrome or hyperparathyroidism, can increase the risk of developing osteopenia. Additionally, long-term use of certain medications, such as steroids or anticonvulsants, can lead to bone loss.

8. Lack of physical activity

Not exercising regularly can weaken bones and make them more susceptible to fractures. Weight-bearing exercises, such as walking, running, and resistance training, help to build and maintain strong bones.

How is osteopenia diagnosed?

Doctors use a test called bone mineral density (BMD) testing to diagnose osteopenia and osteoporosis. This test measures the density of minerals, such as calcium, in your bones.

A BMD test is painless and noninvasive, and can be done at a doctor’s office or a hospital. The most common type of BMD test is called a dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry (DXA) test, which uses a low dose of radiation to measure bone density in the hip and spine.

How is osteopenia treated?

Your doctor may recommend lifestyle changes and medications to treat osteopenia, depending on the severity of your condition. Lifestyle changes may include:.

Increasing calcium and vitamin D intake through diet or supplements
Exercising regularly, especially weight-bearing activities
Stopping smoking and limiting alcohol intake
Falling-proofing your home to prevent falls
Treating any underlying medical conditions that contribute to bone loss

If lifestyle changes are not enough to improve bone density, medications may also be prescribed. Common medications used to treat osteopenia and osteoporosis include:.

Bisphosphonates
Hormone therapy
RANK ligand (RANKL) inhibitors
Parathyroid hormone (PTH) analogues

It is important to work closely with your doctor to determine the right treatment plan for you.

Conclusion

Osteopenia is a serious condition that can progress to osteoporosis if left untreated.

It is important to understand the risk factors for osteopenia, including age, genetics, gender, ethnicity, hormonal factors, lifestyle factors, medical conditions, and lack of physical activity. If you are at risk for osteopenia, talk to your doctor about ways to prevent or treat this condition.