What are the risk factors for osteoporosis and how can it be prevented?

Osteoporosis is a condition that makes bones weak and more likely to break. The majority of osteoporosis patients are women, especially postmenopausal women. Risk factors for osteoporosis include aging, family history, low calcium intake, lack of exercise, smoking, and excessive alcohol consumption. To prevent osteoporosis, it's important to maintain a healthy lifestyle from a young age. First, ensure you get enough calcium and vitamin D, which are crucial for bone health. Second, engage in weight-bearing exercises like walking, running, or lifting weights to strengthen bones. Additionally, avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption can also help reduce risk. If you're at risk for osteoporosis, it's advisable to have regular bone density tests and consult with your doctor for personalized prevention advice.