of low bone density can begin early in life by eating a healthful diet, doing weight-bearing exercise, minimizing alcoholic beverages, and not smoking tobacco.

The treatment of osteopenia is controversial. Non-pharmaceutical treatment tries to preserve existing bone mass using the above-described healthful behaviors. Pharmaceutical treatment for osteopenia, such as bisphosphonates and other medications, may be considered in certain cases, but that is not without risks. Treatment decisions should