What are some risk factors for osteopenia?

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    Last Updated: May 16, 2025

    Risk factors for osteopenia include both modifiable and nonmodifiable elements such as family history, race, advancing age, low BMI, sedentary lifestyle, lower socioeconomic status, alcohol use disorder, early menopause, smoking, certain medical conditions, specific medications, and chronic nutritional deficiencies.

    There are many factors, both modifiable and non-modifiable, that may increase the risk of osteopenia, including:[1][2][3]

    • Family history of osteopenia and/or osteoporosis
    • White or Asian race
    • Advancing age
    • BMI <18.5 kg/m2
    • Sedentary lifestyle
    • Lower socioeconomic status
    • Lower levels of education
    • Alcohol use disorder
    • Early onset menopause
    • Cigarette smoking
    • Certain medical conditions (e.g., hyperthyroidism, hyperparathyroidism, anorexia, chronic kidney disease, HIV)
    • Certain medications (e.g., glucocorticoids, proton pump inhibitors, anticonvulsants)
    • Chronic nutritional deficiencies (e.g., calcium, vitamin D)