These groups, women over the age of 50 and people with a small skeletal frame, have a higher risk of developing osteoporosis due to certain factors:
1. Hormonal Changes: Women experience a significant decrease in estrogen levels during menopause, which accelerates bone loss and increases their susceptibility to osteoporosis. Men, on the other hand, generally have higher peak bone mass and a slower rate of bone loss.
2. Aging Process: As individuals age, bone remodeling and the replacement of old bone tissue with new bone tissue slow down. This gradual decline in bone density increases the risk of osteoporosis.
3. Genetics and Body Frame: People with a smaller skeletal frame tend to have less bone mass overall, putting them at higher risk for osteoporosis. Bone density and structure can also be influenced by genetic factors.
4. Lifestyle Factors: Certain lifestyle choices can further contribute to the risk of osteoporosis. Lack of physical activity, inadequate calcium and vitamin D intake, smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and a sedentary lifestyle can all negatively impact bone health.