(HealthDay News) -- Osteopenia is the medical term for low bone density. A diagnosis indicates you may be at risk of a more severe form of thinning bones called osteoporosis, according to the National Osteoporosis Foundation.

If you have osteopenia, it's time to protect your bones from thinning even more. The lower your bone density, the greater your risk of a fracture.

The foundation suggests performing weight-bearing exercises, getting plenty of calcium and vitamin D, limiting alcohol intake and avoiding smoking.

Some people with osteopenia may need to start taking medication to stabilize or reverse loss of bone mass. They may also require regular doctor visits and bone density tests. Speak to your doctor about what he or she recommends.