What are the Risk Factors for Osteoporosis and Osteoporotic Fractures?
Certain genetic and environmental situations may increase your risk of osteoporosis and fractures such as: • Low bone density • Broken bone from a minor fall or injury after age 45 • Age greater than 65 years • Low body weight (less than 127 pounds) • Family history of fractures, especially a maternal history of hip fractures • Early menopause (before age 45) • Prolonged absence of menstrual periods • Cigarette smoking • Sedentary lifestyle – little or no exercise • Excessive alcohol intake (more than 2 drinks per day) • Use of certain medications, such as anti-convulsants, corticosteroids, thyroid hormone • Height loss more than 2 inches • X-ray that indicates low bone mass
