What You Need to Know About Osteopenia

Osteopenia is a condition marked by low bone mass. Although people with osteopenia have less dense bone than normal, the condition is not as severe as osteoporosis. However, people with osteopenia are at an increased risk for developing osteoporosis if their condition is left untreated.
An estimated 18 million people in the U.S. have osteopenia.

Risk Factors for Osteopenia

Because aging-related processes deplete bone of minerals and mass, your risk for osteopenia (as well as osteoporosis) is likely to increase as you get older.

In addition, women are more prone to osteopenia and osteoporosis than men, due to their naturally lower bone mineral density and certain bone-affecting hormonal changes that occur during menopause.

Other factors that may raise your risk for osteopenia include:

•eating disorders or other issues that prevent the body from absorbing a sufficient amount of minerals and vitamins
•exposure to radiation therapy or chemotherapy
•a family history of osteoporosis
•excessive consumption of alcohol
•use of certain medications, such as steroids