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 acts as a protective factor for bone health, not a risk factor. Weight-bearing activities—like walking, running, or resistance training—apply mechanical loads to bone, stimulating osteoblast activity and helping maintain or increase bone mineral density. This reduces osteoporosis risk rather than contributing to it.

Infrequent physical activity misses that protective stimulus, increasing risk because bones aren’t regularly taxed to adapt and strengthen. Alcoholism can interfere with bone remodeling and calcium metabolism, raising risk. Asian ethnicity is associated with lower peak bone mass in some populations and higher osteoporosis risk compared with other groups. So the only factor that does not contribute to risk is regular weight-bearing exercise.