The tendency to develop osteoporosis depends on a number of factors, important ones of which are listed below:

Age: The chances of getting osteoporosis increase in women after the age 45-50, while in men 65-70 years.

Gender: As compared to men, women are 4 times more susceptible to osteoporosis since their bones are lighter and thinner than of men.

Race: Studies have revealed that Asian and Caucasian women are more prone to get osteoporosis than other women are.

Bone structure and body frame: Shorter people are at a larger risk of osteoporosis, as they possess lesser bone mass, loss of even some of which can be critical enough to lead to osteoporosis. Thinner people are also at a greater risk of osteoporosis since they possess lesser fat. Fat cells make estrogen, whose deficiency causes bone loss in women.

Genetic factor: People with family history of osteoporosis are at a greater risk of osteoporosis.

Malnutrition: Lack of proper nourishment may lead to the deficiency of vital nutrients essential for the bone health (like calcium, vitamin D) and hence increase the risk of osteoporosis

Smoking: Smoking also enhances the risk of osteoporosis.

Alcohol use: In people who drink heavily, boss loss is far greater than its formation. However, a recent research has shown that consuming moderate amount of alcohol may actually increase the bone density. Thus, cutting down the amount of alcohol to mild or moderate amounts would be a better option for your bone health.

Soft drinks: Regular consumption of soft drinks with a high amount of phosphoric acid can hinder absorption of bone.

Sedentary lifestyle: Too little or physical activity and weight bearing exercises like walking, running, dancing, weight lifting or climbing stairs can weaken the bones. Exercises also make your balance better and reduce the likelihood of falling.

Certain medical conditions: If you are suffering from certain medical conditions, like hyperthyroidism, or have a disorder that hinders proper utilization of calcium and vitamin D, you at a larger risk for osteoporosis.

Certain medications: If you are on medications like corticosteroids, generally used for treating chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and asthma for 6 months or a longer period, you are susceptible to steroid-induced osteoporosis. These medications are the common cause of osteoporosis seen in men.

Caffeine: A high amount of caffeine can also increase the osteoporosis. Thus, you must limit the intake of coffee, tea, cola, chocolates etc.

Anorexia: Anorexia refers to loss of appetite due to certain medical condition or deliberately fasting to lose weight. Such a condition often creates a deficiency of nutrients (like calcium, vitamin D) required for bone formation, hence increasing the chances of getting osteoporosis.