Osteopenia and Osteoporosis Osteopenia is a common condition that affects around 34 million Americans. Osteopenia is a loss of bone mineral density that causes the bones to become weak. Although it isn't as severe as osteoporosis it is something to be concerned about. Generally, you will see osteopenia in people older than 50, those with poor nutrition, as well as women after menopause. Bones are made of living tissue that are constantly breaking down and rebuilding, after the age of 35 we begin to break down bone more than rebuild it. Bone density decreases throughout life even in a healthy person by less than 1 percent a year. This becomes an issue when the bone loss happens more rapidly which leads to osteopenia. Below is a list of things that can lead to Osteopenia: Hyperthyroidism Medications such as prednisone, some cancer treatments, high blood pressure and seizures ...