Several risk factors can contribute to the development of osteoporosis. Here is a list of some key "red flags" for osteoporosis.

Bone breaks: Breaking a bone as an adult could be a warning sign that the body's bones are weak.

Family history: If a person has osteoporosis, a family member may have a 60 to 80 percent chance of getting the condition.

Low dietary calcium and vitamin D: Milk and other dairy products can provide a major source of bone-building calcium to most diets. Leafy green vegetables and soybeans are also high in calcium.

Excessive smoking or drinking alcohol: Smoking reduces the body's ability to absorb calcium, and doubles the risk of an osteoporotic fracture. Drinking too much alcohol on a regular basis can likewise make a person susceptible to bone loss and fractures.

Low body weight: Thinness is an important risk factor for osteoporosis, and raises the possibility of suffering bone fractures. Frequent dieting can contribute to a loss of bone density.

A chronic medical problem: Rheumatoid arthritis, hyperthyroidism (excessive production of thyroid hormones), hyperparathyroidism (a condition caused by excessive amounts of parathyroid hormone), diabetes or liver disease increases the chance of osteoporosis.

Persistent back pain: Pain that does not dissipate could signal a spinal fracture. Spinal fractures occur when bones in the back become so weak that they fracture and collapse.