Loss of bone mineral density (osteopenia), which can lead to more fragile and brittle bones (osteoporosis), is a common condition associated with ageing.  Osteoporosis is most common in post-menopausal women.

People with HIV may be at increased risk for osteopenia and osteoporosis because:

• the lifestyle risk factors are more prevalent amongst people with HIV
• some antiretroviral medications are associated with increased risk
• HIV itself may cause metabolic changes that decrease bone mineral density (BMD). Vitamin D is essential for bone health, because it helps:

For Australians, the main source of vitamin D is from exposure to sunlight. Vitamin D3 is formed by the action of sunlight (UV light) on the skin. A deficiency of vitamin D can contribute to osteoporosis because without it, calcium will not be fully absorbed by your body.

Lifestyle risk factors for osteopenia include:

• smoking
• excessive alcohol
• a very low body weight

• low levels of physical activity

• lack of calcium and vitamin D in the diet
• low levels of oestrogen or testosterone