Osteoporosis is a bone disease that occurs when the body loses too much bone, makes too little bone or both. As a result, the bones become weak and can break from minor falls or accidents.

Osteoporosis is a silent disease that can go unnoticed until a fall or fracture occurs. However, there are certain risk factors that can increase the likelihood of developing this condition. Here are some of the risk factors for osteoporosis:.

Age

As we age, our bones become weaker, thinner, and less dense. This makes older adults more susceptible to osteoporosis. Women over the age of 50 and men over the age of 70 are at an increased risk of developing osteoporosis.

Gender

Women are at a higher risk of developing osteoporosis than men. This is because women have smaller, thinner bones than men, and they also lose bone density more quickly as they age.

Menopause

Women who have gone through menopause are at an increased risk of developing osteoporosis. This is because the ovaries produce less estrogen after menopause. Estrogen is a hormone that helps keep bones strong.

Familiy History

If someone in your family has osteoporosis, you are more likely to develop the condition. This is because genetics plays a role in bone density and bone strength.

Lifestyle Factors

Several lifestyle factors can increase the risk of developing osteoporosis. These include:.

Smoking
Excessive alcohol consumption
Poor diet lacking calcium and vitamin D
Inactivity or lack of exercise

Medical Conditions

Several medical conditions can increase the risk of developing osteoporosis. These include:.

Hormone disorders, such as hyperthyroidism and Cushing’s syndrome
Inflammatory diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis and lupus
Eating disorders, such as anorexia nervosa
Cancer
Organ transplant
Chronic kidney disease
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)

Medications

Several medications can increase the risk of developing osteoporosis. These include:.

Corticosteroids, such as prednisone
Anticonvulsants, such as phenytoin and carbamazepine
Thyroid hormone
Chemotherapy drugs
Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs)

Low Body Weight

Individuals who are underweight or have a small body frame are at an increased risk of developing osteoporosis. This is because they have less bone mass to begin with, which means they have less bone to lose as they age.

Previous Fractures

If you have already had a fracture, you are at an increased risk of developing another fracture. This is because weakening of bones leads to fractures.

Race

Some races are more likely to develop osteoporosis than others. White and Asian women are at a higher risk of developing osteoporosis than African American and Hispanic women. However, all races should take steps to protect their bones.