Risk Factors
Osteoporosis is a bone disease characterized by a decrease in bone strength and an increased risk of fractures. Risk factors are diverse, some of which cannot be controlled, including gender, age, race, and family genetics. However, some of the factors can be influenced.
Biological risk factors include age, gender, and family history (Branch, 2023). Older people, women, and people with a family history of osteoporosis are more likely to develop the disease. Genetic factors can influence the initial density of bones or their mineral saturation, which directly impacts bone density and, consequently, affects the development of the disease. Environmental factors can affect the availability of foods rich in vitamins necessary for bone strengthening. Psychological and social factors do not have a direct impact, but have an indirect effect on physical activity, which has an impact on the development of the disease.
Prevention
Recommendations for avoiding osteoporosis include a healthy lifestyle. This includes reducing regular consumption of large doses of alcohol, increasing physical activity, and eating foods fortified with calcium and vitamin D (Branch, 2023). In addition, the use of certain medications can lead to bone loss and cause osteoporosis, so it is always important to consult a doctor.
Physical activity is effective in preventing osteoporosis, and it works with older people; programs with more variation in exercises are more effective (Pinheiro et al., 2020). Physical activity should be on a regular basis, 2-3 times a week, to influence bones. Studies have not yet determined whether tobacco has an impact on the development of osteoporosis. However, it has been proven that the process of smoking itself is the cause, so getting rid of this habit will reduce the risk of bone fragility. Consequently, to avoid or prevent osteoporosis, you should lead a healthy lifestyle, including regular physical activity, a diet rich in micronutrients, and avoiding unhealthy habits such as smoking and excessive alcohol consumption.
References
Branch, N. S. C. a. O. (2023). Osteoporosis. National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases.
Pinheiro, M. B., Oliveira, J. S., Bauman, A., Fairhall, N., Kwok, W., & Sherrington, C. (2020). Evidence on physical activity and osteoporosis prevention for people aged 65+ years: a systematic review to inform the WHO guidelines on physical activity and sedentary behavior. International Journal of Behavioral Nutrition and Physical Activity, 17(1).