The relationships between falling, fracture and bone density in perimenopausal women have not previously been explored. As part of a population-based screening programme for osteoporosis examining historical risk factors and bone mineral density, we have investigated risk factors for falling in 45-49-year-old women. Our results indicate that the risk of falling may be related to menopausal status, increased body weight, use of diuretics, self-reported arthritis and absence of car ownership.