White and Asian women are most likely to get osteoporosis. Women who have a family history of osteoporosis, an early menopause, or who have small body frames are at greatest risk. Men have less risk of getting osteoporosis because they do not have the same kinds of hormone losses as women. Osteoporosis can strike at any age but the risk increases as you get older. Diagnosis Losing height or breaking a bone may be the first sign of osteoporosis.
Doctors use several different tests to find osteoporosis.
Other tests the doctor may use include single photon absorptiometry, dual energy absorptiometry , and quantitative computed tomography . Ask your doctor about these tests if you think you are at risk for osteoporosis. Prevention Osteoporosis is preventable. A diet that is rich in calcium and vitamin D and a lifestyle that includes regular weight-bearing exercise are the best ways to prevent osteoporosis. Getting enough calcium throughout life is important because it helps to build and keep strong bones.