Certain people are more likely to develop osteoporosis than others.  Factors that increase the likelihood of developing osteoporosis are called "risk factors."  These risk factors include: 

• Personal history of fracture after age 50

• Current low bone mass

• History of fracture in a 1° relative

• Being female

• Being thin and/or having a small frame

• Advanced age

• A family history of osteoporosis

• Estrogen deficiency as a result of menopause, especially early or surgically induced

• Abnormal absence of menstrual periods (amenorrhea)

• Anorexia nervosa

•  Low lifetime calcium intake

• Vitamin D deficiency

• Use of certain medications, such as corticosteroids and anticonvulsants

• Presence of certain chronic medical conditions

• Low testosterone levels in men

• An inactive lifestyle

• Current cigarette smoking

• Excessive use of alcohol

• Being Caucasian or Asian, although African Americans and Hispanic Americans are at significant risk as well