The weakening and breaking down of bone mass as one ages and gets into the later stages of menopause can lead a woman to experience more fractures and falls in their later lives.

Knowing the risk factors for osteoporosis can help you figure out your chances of developing it. The risk factors can be seen as those you can change and those you cannot. This will look at those osteoporosis risk factors that you can change.

Diet - If you are dieting or having inadequate calories coming into the body you are increasing your chances. Also having low calcium and vitamin D in your diet can put you at a higher risk. These deal directly with the bone's health.

Body Structure - If one has very low body fat there is no extra cushion to protect the bone in case of a fall. It will increase the fracture rate for the bone.

Medical Condition - Anorexia will affect the bone's health and it will put the body thinner and more prone to fracture.

Sex hormone deficiency, inactivity, smoking and drinking are all others that will raise your risk of bone loss.

Some medications - Prostate Cancer drugs, glucocorticoids, anticonvusants, anticlotting drugs, and immune suppressors will all raise your risk levels.