Which of the following is a primary risk factor for osteoporosis?

• A. Regular exercise
• B. Adequate calcium intake
• C. Advanced age
• D. High body weight

Answer: (C)

Advanced age is a major risk factor for osteoporosis because bone density naturally declines as people get older. After peak bone mass is reached in early adulthood, the rate of bone remodeling shifts toward more resorption than formation, so bones become lighter and more fragile over time. Hormonal changes, especially reduced estrogen after menopause, accelerate this loss, raising fracture risk.

Regular exercise and adequate calcium intake are protective for bone health, helping maintain or improve bone density and strength rather than increasing risk. Higher body weight does not typically act as a primary risk factor; in fact, a higher body weight can provide more mechanical loading on bones and may be somewhat protective, whereas very low body weight is a known risk factor for osteoporosis.