Which factor is identified as a nonmodifiable risk factor for osteoporosis in this client?

Which factor is identified as a nonmodifiable risk factor for osteoporosis in this client?

• A. Recent death of her husband
• B. High alcohol intake
• C. Low body weight, thin build
• D. Gave birth to her first and only child at age 30

Answer: (C)

Nonmodifiable risk factors are inherent characteristics that cannot be changed to reduce osteoporosis risk. A thin build or low body weight falls into this category because it is a fixed physical trait that correlates with lower bone mass and less skeletal reserve. People with a lean frame have less bone density to begin with, and the amount of bone they have isn’t something easily altered in the short term through lifestyle changes, so this factor is considered nonmodifiable. The other options reflect factors that can be addressed or avoided through behavior or treatment, such as reducing alcohol intake or managing stress, so they don’t represent fixed, unchangeable risk.