Primary osteoporosis is common, with significant sociomedical conseque
nces. This paper studies the prevalence of risk factors and risk behav
ior for osteoporosis in women of four different occupational groups: h
ousewives, blue collar workers, white collar workers/civil servants an
d farmers. We analyzed risk factors and risk behavior associated with
osteoporosis in the scientific literature. The sample comprises 9,939
women. The data set is based on a health survey conducted in 79 select
ed rural communities of Styria (Austria)between 1989 and 1993. Sociode
mographic data, lifestyle, health complaints, chronic conditions and u
tilization of preventive and treatment services were surveyed by means
of standardized personal interviews. The results show that the women
of the four occupational groups were subjected to very different stres
ses. White collar workers/civil servants had the lowest risk with rega
rd to osteoporosis. Our results suggest that efficient intervention pr
ograms to prevent osteoporosis need to specifically focus on the diffe
rent social life styles of women.