There was a time when people thought osteoporosis was something that happened to everybody when they got old. Fragile bones and a humped back were inevitable. We now know this is not true. Some people are more likely to get osteoporosis than others. These people have “risk factors” for developing weak and easily broken bones. Many of these risk factors can’t be changed, but others can. Understanding your risks will help you and your healthcare provider takes steps to ensure strong and healthy bones for a lifetime.