Factors in the development of ‘silent’ bone disease

*Age. After 65, men are more susceptible to osteoporosis.

*Family history of osteoporosis.

*Post-menopause, including early or surgically induced menopause. Women can lose up to 20 percent of their bone mass in the five to seven years following menopause, making them more susceptible to osteoporosis.

*Abnormal absence of menstrual periods.

*Anorexia nervosa or bulimia.

*A diet low in calcium.

*Use of certain medications, such as corticosteroids and anticonvulsants.

*Low testosterone levels in men.

*An inactive lifestyle.

*Cigarette smoking.

*Excessive use of alcohol.

The National Osteoporosis Foundation recommends women have a bone density test if they meet the following criteria:

*You are over 65 years old.

*You are postmenopausal with at least one risk factor or a fracture.

*You are considering osteoporosis therapy.

*You are on prolonged hormone replacement therapy.

NOF doesn't have guidelines for men. But if a man has some of the risk factors for osteoporosis they should consult a doctor about the possibility of a bone densitometry test, according to Lynn Chard-Petronjal, a spokeswoman with the foundation.