Which factor listed below is NOT considered a risk factor for development of osteoporosis?

Which factor listed below is NOT considered a risk factor for development of osteoporosis?

• A. Asian race
• B. Infrequent physical activity
• C. Alcoholism
• D. Regular weight-bearing exercise

Answer: (D)

Regular weight-bearing exercise protects bone density by providing the mechanical load that stimulates bone formation and maintains bone mineral density. Because of this, it lowers osteoporosis risk rather than increasing it, making it not a risk factor. The other factors raise risk: Asian race is associated with lower peak bone mass and smaller bone size, which can predispose to osteoporosis; infrequent physical activity reduces the stimulus bones need to maintain density; and alcoholism interferes with calcium metabolism and bone formation, increasing fracture risk.

Regular weight-bearing exercise protects bone density by providing the mechanical load that stimulates bone formation and maintains bone mineral density. Because of this, it lowers osteoporosis risk rather than increasing it, making it not a risk factor. The other factors raise risk: Asian race is associated with lower peak bone mass and smaller bone size, which can predispose to osteoporosis; infrequent physical activity reduces the stimulus bones need to maintain density; and alcoholism interferes with calcium metabolism and bone formation, increasing fracture risk.