Risk Factors for Fractures
Fracture risk results from a combination of bone-dependent and bone-independent factors. Various aspects of “bone geometry,” such as tallness, hip structure, and thighbone (femur) length, can also affect your chances of breaking a bone if you fall. Increasing age, excessive weight loss, a history of fractures since age 45, having an existing spine fracture etc.


* Older age (age 65 and older)
* Fracture after age 45
* First-degree female relative with a fracture in adulthood
* Self-report health as “fair” or “poor”
* Current tobacco use
* Weight less than 127 pounds
* Menopause prior to age 45
* Amenorrhea
* Lifelong low calcium intake
* Excess alcohol consumption
* Poor vision despite correction
* Falls
* Minimal weight-bearing exercise
* Medical conditions – hyperthyroidism, chronic lung disease, endometriosis, malignancy, chronic hepatic or renal disease, hyperparathyroidism, vitamin D deficiency, Cushing's disease
* Medications – oral glucocorticoids, excess thyroxine replacement, antiepileptic medications, gonadal hormone suppression, immunosuppressive agents.
A comprehensive treatment program includes a focus on proper nutrition, exercise, and prevention of falls that may result in fractures. Your doctor may also prescribe one of several medications that have been shown to slow or stop bone loss or build new bone, increase bone density, and reduce fracture risk, it is still essential that you obtain the recommended amounts of calcium and vitamin D. Exercising and maintaining other aspects of a healthy lifestyle are also important.