Health Tip: Some Prone to Losing Bone Mass

Risk factors for osteopenia

(HealthDay News) -- Some people are at risk for losing bone mass, but haven't progressed to full-blown osteoporosis. In other words, their bodies break down old bone faster than they can produce new bone. Doctors call this condition osteopenia.

The American Academy of Family Physicians says risk factors for osteopenia include:

  • Getting older.
  • Starting menopause before age 45.
  • Having surgery to remove the ovaries before menopause.
  • Getting insufficient physical activity.
  • Drinking too much alcohol, smoking or other use of tobacco.
  • Having an eating disorder.
  • Having an overactive thyroid.
Diana Kohnle

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