Osteoporosis is a condition that affects the bones and weakens them, making them prone to fractures and breaks. It affects both men and women, but women are at a higher risk of developing the condition due to lower bone mass and hormonal changes that occur during menopause. It is estimated that more than 54 million Americans have osteoporosis or low bone mass and that one in two women and one in four men over the age of 50 will experience a fracture related to the condition. While anyone can develop osteoporosis, certain factors can increase a person’s risk for developing the condition.
Age
Age is one of the biggest factors that can increase a person’s risk for developing osteoporosis. As people age, their bones naturally become weaker and more brittle. This is due to the natural decrease in bone mass that occurs as people get older. When someone reaches the age of 65 or older, their risk for developing osteoporosis greatly increases. Additionally, older people are more prone to falls, which can lead to fractures and breaks in bones already weakened by the condition.
Gender
Gender is another major factor that can increase a person’s risk for developing osteoporosis. Women are at a much higher risk of developing the condition than men due to lower bone mass, changes in hormones that occur during menopause, and the use of certain medications such as estrogen-based drugs. Additionally, women tend to live longer than men, which increases their risk due to increased age.
Family History
Family history is also an important factor to consider when determining a person’s risk for developing osteoporosis. If someone has a family history of the condition, their risk for developing it increases. Additionally, a family history of fractures or breaks can also be an indicator of a higher risk for developing osteoporosis. If someone has a close family member who has been diagnosed with osteoporosis, they should talk to their doctor about ways to reduce their risk of developing it.
Body Weight
Body weight is another factor that can increase a person’s risk for developing osteoporosis. Those with a lower body weight tend to have weaker bones, making them more vulnerable to fractures and breaks. Additionally, those who are underweight may not be getting enough of the vitamins and minerals needed to maintain strong bones. People who are underweight should talk to their doctor about ways to increase their body weight in a healthy way.
Smoking and Alcohol
Smoking and alcohol can also increase a person’s risk for developing osteoporosis. Smoking has been linked to a decrease in bone density and an increased risk of fractures. Alcohol can also decrease bone density and increase the risk of fractures and breaks. Those who smoke or drink should talk to their doctor about ways to reduce their risk of developing the condition.
Medications
Certain medications can also increase a person’s risk for developing osteoporosis. Some medications, such as corticosteroid drugs and anticonvulsants, can interfere with the body’s ability to absorb calcium, leading to weaker bones. Additionally, long-term use of some medications such as proton pump inhibitors and certain anti-seizure medications can also increase the risk of developing the condition. If someone is taking any of these medications, they should talk to their doctor about ways to reduce their risk of developing osteoporosis.
Lifestyle
Finally, lifestyle can also play a role in increasing a person’s risk for developing osteoporosis. A sedentary lifestyle with little to no physical activity can lead to weaker bones and an increased risk of fractures and breaks. Additionally, those who don’t get enough sunlight are at a higher risk of developing the condition, as sunlight helps the body absorb calcium, which is important for strong bones. Eating a healthy diet with plenty of calcium and vitamin D can also help reduce a person’s risk of developing osteoporosis.
Conclusion
Osteoporosis is a condition that affects both men and women, but women are at a higher risk of developing it due to lower bone mass and hormonal changes that occur during menopause. Age, gender, family history, body weight, smoking and alcohol, medications, and lifestyle can all increase a person’s risk for developing the condition. Those who are at a higher risk should talk to their doctor about ways to reduce their risk of developing osteoporosis.