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Osteoporosis vs Osteopenia: Facts to Know

Both Conditions Share Similar Risk Factors

The precise cause of these bone problems is not known, but certain factors are known to increase the likelihood of developing them. Age is the most common. This is because most older adults lose around 0.5 percent of their bone mass every year after they pass 50. [2] Osteopenia typically affects adults over 50 whose bone masses have become lower than average but have not developed osteoporosis.

Race and gender are also important risk factors for both conditions. [3] Women generally have a lower bone mass than men. They also experience bone loss earlier, following menopause. Of these women, Caucasian and Asian women are the most at risk, especially if they have small bones.

A family history of low bone mass also increases the likelihood of developing similar conditions. [4] So do lifestyle choices such as smoking and drinking, inadequate consumption of calcium and vitamin D, and lack of exercise. Some medications, such as prednisone and phenytoin, can also speed up bone loss.