Osteoporosis: Risk Factors You CAN and CANNOT Change

In celebration of this year’s World Osteoporosis Day in the 20th of October, the Rheumatology of Central Indiana presents this comprehensive list with the hope of educating patients and raising awareness about the risk factors of Osteoporosis.

Risk factors you CANNOT change:

1. Gender – Women pose a greater chance of developing osteoporosis than men due to lower peak bone mass and smaller bone structure.
2. Age – Bone loss rate increases over time and bone strength becomes weaker as we age.
3. Body Size – Slender, thin-boned, and taller women are at high risk of developing osteoporosis.
4. Race – Caucasian women are recorded to be at highest risk.
5. Family History– Susceptibility to osteoporosis and bone fractures is hereditary.

Risk factors you CAN change:

1. Sex Hormones Deficiency – Low estrogen and testosterone level are treatable.
2. Diet – Increase intake of calcium and vitamin D through a nutrient-targeted diet plan.
3. Medical Conditions – Examples of contributing medical condition that can also be treated and managed are:
   1. Genetic Disorders
   2. Endocrine Disorders
   3. Gastrointestinal Disorders
   4. Blood Disorders
   5. Rheumatic Disorders
4. Medications – Long-term intake of certain medication may contribute to bone loss and increase the risk of osteoporosis development. Examples are:
   1. Anticonvulsants
   2. Anticlotting
   3. Immunosuppressants
   4. Prostate Cancer Treatment Drugs
5. Lifestyle Inactivity – Prolonged and low level of inactivity can contribute to increased rate of bone loss.
6. Excessive Alcohol Intake – Chronic drinking is a huge factor in developing osteoporosis.
7. Smoking – Use of tobacco may increase the likelihood of developing osteoporosis and bone fractures.

At Rheumatology of Central Indiana, we encourage patients to ask questions about these conditions. We have Dr. Tarek Kteleh, a Rheumatologist in Indiana, to answer and address your inquiries about Osteoporosis and Rheumatoid Arthritis Treatment . As one of the leading providers of health care to patients with arthritis and other related immunological disorders in Indiana, we invite you to come and visit us. We offer Rheumatologist Treatment in Muncie, Indiana.