Your Risk Factors

Check all that apply to you.

Age 65 or older (or post-menopausal for women)

History of a fracture as an adult (from a minor fall or bump)

Parental history of hip fracture or osteoporosis diagnosis

Current smoker or regular tobacco use

Low body weight / BMI (BMI less than 20 kg/m² or weight below 127 lbs / 58 kg)

Prolonged steroid use (e.g., prednisone for 3+ months)

Low calcium intake or vitamin D deficiency (rarely get sun, avoid dairy/fortified foods)

Low physical activity (less than 30 minutes of weight‑bearing exercise most days)

Heavy alcohol use (more than 2 drinks per day regularly)

Medical conditions (rheumatoid arthritis, hyperthyroidism, celiac disease, CKD)

Your Bone Health Profile

Risk Factor Count 0

Lower Risk Higher Risk

Select your risk factors above and click "Calculate Risk Score" to see your personalized interpretation and discussion guide.

Key Areas for Discussion

Your results will appear here.

Understanding Bone Health Risk

Bone strength isn't just about calcium. It's a dynamic balance influenced by age, hormones, nutrition, activity, and genetics. This checklist is based on common clinical risk factors identified by organizations like the International Osteoporosis Foundation (IOF).

How to Use This Tool

Check all boxes that accurately describe your current situation or history.
Click Calculate Risk Score to see your total count and interpretation.
Review the Key Areas for Discussion list. These are potential topics to bring up with your clinician.
Use the Bone Health Priority Planner below to explore simple, actionable steps.

Realistic Examples

Profile	Likely Checked Factors	Typical Score & Action
Healthy 40-year-old	None, or maybe low activity.	0-1: Focus on prevention through diet and exercise.
Post-menopausal woman, 60	Age, menopause, possibly low activity or calcium intake.	2-4: Discuss bone density testing (DEXA scan) with a doctor.
70-year-old with past wrist fracture	Age, prior fracture, possibly others.	4+: High priority for clinical evaluation and fall‑prevention strategies.

Typical Risk Categories (For Reference)

Factor Count	General Interpretation	Common Clinical Guidance*
0 - 1	Lower relative risk	Maintain lifestyle; ensure adequate calcium/vitamin D.
2 - 3	Moderate risk	Discuss risk factors with a clinician; consider baseline assessment.
4 - 5	Increased risk	Likely warrant bone density testing (DEXA) and detailed evaluation.
6+	Higher risk	Strong indication for comprehensive medical workup and intervention.

*This is a simplification for educational purposes. Individual clinical decisions depend on a full medical history and physical exam.

Bone Health Priority Planner

Select a focus area to see simple, evidence‑backed steps you can take. This complements your risk checklist results.

Select a focus area above to see actionable recommendations.

Frequently Asked Questions

How accurate is this checklist?

It's a screening aid based on established clinical risk factors. It cannot replace a formal assessment by a healthcare professional, which includes physical examination, detailed history, and possibly a bone density scan (DEXA).

I have a high score. Does that mean I have osteoporosis?

No. A high score indicates you have several risk factors that are associated with weaker bones and higher fracture risk. Only a medical evaluation and bone density test can diagnose osteoporosis. This tool helps you prepare for that conversation.

What's the most important risk factor?

Age and a prior fragility fracture are among the strongest predictors. However, combinations of factors matter most. For example, a low‑weight smoker with a family history has a compounded risk.

When should I seek professional help?

If you are over 50 with a fracture, are post‑menopausal with multiple risk factors, have unexplained back pain or height loss, or are considering starting/changing medications that affect bone (like steroids). Always consult a doctor for personal advice.

How can I measure my calcium intake or vitamin D levels at home?

You can estimate dietary calcium using food labels and online databases. Vitamin D levels require a blood test ordered by a clinician. Home test kits are available but discuss results with a professional.

Bone Health Risk Checklist

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Bone Health Risk Checklist

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