Risk factors for osteoporosis
If you have suffered a fracture or broken bone as a result of a minor fall, bump or strain then you may have osteoporosis, and you should have an osteoporosis screen to check if you have the condition.
It is impossible to tell if you are developing osteoporosis, or are at risk of developing it in the future, unless you are screened for osteoporosis. But there are a number of risk factors that could mean you are more likely to develop osteoporosis.
If you can answer ‘yes’ to one or more of these questions then you could be at risk, and may benefit from an osteoporosis screen:
- Are you over 50?
- Have you ever broken a bone in a seemingly minor incident?
- Do you have a relative who has broken a bone in a minor incident, or has been diagnosed with osteoporosis?
- Are you losing height?
- Did you have your menopause or your ovaries removed before you were 45?
- Before your menopause, did you go without a period for more than six months?
- Have you taken drugs containing steroids for a long period of time?
- Have you suffered from a digestive disorder that affected nutrient absorption?
- Have you ever been immobile for a long period?
- Have you ever suffered from an eating disorder?
Other risk factors include:
- Slender bones
- Heavy drinking
- Heavy smoking
Lack of calcium or vitamin D in the diet
If your osteoporosis screen indicates that you have osteoporosis or may develop it in the future, there are ways of preventing or treating the condition.
