For women:

a lack of oestrogen, caused by:

• early menopause (before the age of 45)
• early hysterectomy (before the age of 45), particularly when both ovaries are removed (oophorectomy)
• missing periods for six months or more (excluding pregnancy) as a result of over-exercising or over-dieting

For men:

• low levels of the male hormone, testosterone (hypogonadism)

For men and women:

• long-term use of high dose corticosteroid tablets (for conditions such as arthritis and asthma)
• close family history of osteoporosis (mother or father), particularly if your mother suffered a hip fracture
• other medical conditions such as Cushing's syndrome and liver and thyroid problems
• digestive malabsorption problems (coeliac disease, Crohn's disease, gastric surgery)
• long-term immobility
• heavy drinking
• smoking

You are at increased risk of developing osteoporosis if you have or are affected by one or more of the risk factors  above. You should discuss your risk with your doctor and find out how to prevent or treat the disease if necessary.

If you have broken a bone after a minor bump or fall you may already have osteoporosis and you should discuss this with your GP.