Who is at risk for osteoporosis?

Women and osteoporosis
Women over the age of 45 or 50, are considered at higher risk for developing Type I osteoporosis. Individuals who are at higher risk for osteoporosis should be especially attentive about taking preventive measures and getting tested for early signs of osteoporosis.

Risk factors for osteoporosis
Several key risk factors for developing osteoporosis include:

• Advanced age

• Early menopause

• Hypogonadism (small gonads)

• White females (Asian, fair-skinned and blond women, petite or small-boned women are considered especially at risk)

• Chronic (long-term) use of steroids

• Prolonged bedrest or sedentary lifestyle

• History of hip fractures on the mother’s side of the family

• Low calcium intake (less than 1,000 milligrams per day for adults)

• Alcohol abuse

• Cigarette smoking

• High levels of caffeine intake

• Thin body habitus (petite)