Osteoporosis Risk Factors

Over 80% of all fractures in people 50+ are caused by osteoporosis. This can be attributed in part to reduced bone mineral density as we age. Both women and men begin losing bone density in their mid-30s, placing them at higher risk for fracture.

Osteoporosis is more common in women than in men. As women experience hormonal changes as they approach menopause, they begin to lose bone at a greater rate of 2–3% per year. The distinct hormonal experiences of post-menopausal women may require specific intervention methods. Talk to your doctor to see what is right for you.

Ethnicity is another one of the risk factors for osteoporosis. Some ethnicities are more prone to osteoporosis than others. For example, osteoporosis is more common in Caucasian and Asian people.

A previous fracture raises the risk of future fracture by 86%, compared to people who have not had a prior fracture.

Fragility fractures are fractures that occur from low energy trauma or an event that would not be expected to cause a fracture. They typically include osteoporotic fractures from falling from standing height or less and most commonly occur at the hip, spine, and forearm.

If you have a parent who experienced a hip fracture, you may be at a higher risk of developing osteoporosis and having a fracture. Osteoporosis is known to have a strong genetic component that influences bone mineral density and a strong family history of osteoporosis is connected with risk of developing it.

People who regularly consume 3 or more alcoholic drinks per day have an increased risk for falls or osteoporotic fracture and are more likely to exhibit poor nutrition and eating habits compared to those who drink less or consume no alcohol.

People who smoke cigarettes are at a heightened risk of any fracture compared to non-smokers.

Vitamin D by itself and in combination with calcium lowers the risk of falling in older men and women. Studies have shown that use of vitamin D supplements among healthy older women reduced bone loss over periods of 1–2 years.

Ninety percent of hip fractures are caused by falls. The risk of falling is significantly increased by factors like visual impairments, Alzheimer’s disease, joint disease, poor postural control, and more.

Physical activity and exercise are especially important in adults over the age of 50 to help reduce the risk of falls and fractures. Simple activities like balance exercises, walking, and resistance training can improve quality of life, physical functioning and reduce mortality.