Osteoporosis makes you more likely to break bones because you lose bone mass and density. You may not have any symptoms or pain. The first sign might be a bone fracture. It’s a myth that osteoporosis is a disease that only affects older white women. Men and women of all ages and ethnicities can get it. However, certain things do make osteoporosis more likely: 1. Age: Your bone density peaks around age 30. After that, you’ll begin to lose bone mass. To keep your bones as strong as possible, engage in strength training and weight-bearing exercise, and ensure you get enough calcium and vitamin D in your diet. 2. Gender: Women over the age of 50 are the most likely to develop osteoporosis. The condition is four times as likely in women than men. Lighter, thinner bones and longer life spans in women contribute to this higher risk. 3. Family history: If your parents or grandparents have had osteoporosis or signs like a fractured hip after a minor fall, you may be more at risk. 4. Bone structure and body weight: Petite and thin women have a greater chance of developing osteoporosis because they have less bone to lose. Similarly, small-boned, thin men are at greater risk compared to larger-framed men. 5. Broken bones: Previous fractures may indicate weaker bones. 6. Ethnicity: Research shows that Caucasian and Asian women are more likely to develop osteoporosis than women of other ethnicities. Caucasian women are twice as likely to have hip fractures as African-American women. 7. Certain diseases: Diseases like rheumatoid arthritis increase the odds of getting osteoporosis. 8. Some medications: Long-term use of certain prescription medications like steroids (e.g., prednisone) can increase the risk of osteoporosis. 9. Smoking: It's harmful to your bones. To lower your risk of osteoporosis and fractures, and many other health problems, work to quit smoking ASAP. 10. Alcohol: Heavy drinking can lead to bone thinning and make fractures more likely.