Risk factorsUncontrolled factors<$>

[bul] Early menopause

[bul] Females

[bul] Family history of osteoporosis

[bul] Ethnicity: Caucasians and Asians are at higher risk

[bul] Small body frame: adults with a body weight below 127 pounds

[bul] Advanced age

[bul] Certain illnesses: Cushing’s disease, liver or kidney disease

Controlled factors<$>

[bul] Menopausal (and not taking oestrogen

[bul] Calcium deficiency

[bul] Smoking

[bul] Lack of exercise

[bul] Alcohol abuse

[bul] Excessive doses of steroidsPrevention[bul] Balanced diet rich in calcium and vitamin D

[bul] Weight bearing exercises like walking, running, weight lifting (not swimming)

[bul] No smoking, no excessive alcohol or caffeine

[bul] Avoid falls

[bul] Bone density testing and medication when appropriate