What Is Osteopenia?
Reviewed: Dr. Gromatzky
5. Who Is at Greatest Risk for Osteopenia?
Millions of new cases of osteopenia are diagnosed each year, and one medical institution estimates that up to 50 percent of all people in the United States over 50 years old have osteopenia. Those at greatest risk are Asian and Caucasian people, especially women over age 50. All genders are races are susceptible, however, especially those with a family history of bone loss.
A primary lifestyle choice that increases risk is lack of regular, weight-bearing exercise. Excessive exercise can be just as dangerous if it leads to being severely underweight or malnourished. People who drink alcohol or smoke tobacco, who are deficient in vitamin D and calcium, and who suffer from celiac disease also are at increased risk.
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