osteoporosrisk

Osteoporosrisk refers to the likelihood of developing osteoporosis, a condition characterized by reduced bone mass and deterioration of bone tissue that increases the risk of fractures. The risk increases with age and is higher in women, especially after menopause, but men can also develop osteoporosis and fracture.

Several factors influence osteoporosrisk. Non-modifiable factors include age, female sex, family history of osteoporosis or fractures, and certain ethnic backgrounds. Modifiable factors include low body weight, smoking, excessive alcohol use, inadequate intake of calcium and vitamin D, and physical inactivity. Medical conditions such as hyperthyroidism, malabsorption, rheumatoid arthritis, and prolonged use of glucocorticoids also raise risk. Medications, hormonal status, and previous fractures further inform a person’s risk profile.

Assessment and screening commonly use bone mineral density measurements obtained by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA). A T-score of -2.5 or lower indicates osteoporosis, while scores between -1.0 and -2.5 indicate osteopenia, a condition associated with increased fracture risk. Risk assessment tools, such as the FRAX model, estimate the 10-year probability of major osteoporotic fracture and can be used alongside BMD to guide management decisions. Screening recommendations vary by country and guidelines consider age, sex, and risk factors.

Prevention and treatment aim to reduce fracture risk. Adequate calcium and vitamin D intake, regular weight-bearing and resistance exercise, and fall prevention strategies are foundational. Lifestyle changes include avoiding tobacco and limiting alcohol. Pharmacologic options for those at higher risk include bisphosphonates (eg, alendronate, risedronate), denosumab, and, for some patients, anabolic agents such as teriparatide or romosozumab. Individual treatment choices depend on overall fracture risk, tolerability, and contraindications.