In general, osteoporosis arises with conditions that either decrease your ability to build bone or increase bone loss. Aging is a key risk factor for osteoporosis. Women are much more likely than man to develop osteoporosis because – in general - their bones are smaller, thinner, and less dense, and they tend to live longer. Also, menopause is a risk factor for osteoporosis because women tend to lose more bone after menopause due to lower levels of estrogen. In fact, it is estimated to impact over 200 million women worldwide.
Other risk factors associated for osteoporosis include:
Race: Caucasians are at higher risk of having osteoporosis.
Genetics: Those with a family history of osteoporosis are at higher risk of also having this disease.
Body size: People with thin, slight frames are more likely to have osteoporosis.
Medical conditions: Certain medical conditions –an overactive thyroid gland or other hormone problems, for example – can increase the risk of osteoporosis.
Medications: Certain medications –steroids, in particular – are associated with increased bone loss and osteoporosis.
Lifestyle factors and diet: There are many lifestyle factors that are considered osteoporosis risk factors. Smoking, too much alcohol, poor diet, and lack of physical activity can increase risk for osteoporosis.