Osteoporosis is not just a women’s health condition

Although not as prevalent as in women, men also develop osteoporosis. In fact, one in four men over the age of 50 will break a bone due to the condition.

Osteoporosis is a bone disease that occurs when the body loses too much bone or too little bone – and it can also be a combination of both. This causes bone density loss and can lead to your bones containing an abnormal tissue structure.

Men often begin to lose bone density later in life compared to women, which statistically explains why there are fewer fractures among men. But men who do experience a serious bone fracture are more likely to die compared to women, as they tend to be older and have more health problems.

Factors that increase men’s risk of osteoporosis

• Certain medications: SSRIs (antidepressants) such as escitalopram and fluoxetine; steroids; Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs) such as omeprazole; anticonvulsants; GnRH agonists, sex hormone suppressants; and levothyroxine, a thyroid hormone replacement medications.
• Age: Men over the age of 70 are at an increased risk of developing osteoporosis, especially those with a thin frame. Aging naturally makes your bones more fragile.
• Smoking and drinking alcohol: Both habits can damage your bone health, and rates of smoking and alcohol consumption are higher among men.
• Poor nutrition: Inadequate intake of calcium and vitamin D can weaken your bones and impede bone growth.
• Certain health conditions: Neurological conditions, low testosterone, dietary malabsorption, anemia, cancer – specifically if you’re receiving chemotherapy, autoimmune diseases, diabetes and connective tissue diseases.

What men can do to lower osteoporosis risk

Men who have risk factors should discuss with their health care provider whether bone density screening is appropriate. Bone density screening involves a dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry (DXA) scan to check bone strength and fracture risk.  

If your scan shows you’re at risk for osteoporosis, your primary care provider or an expert at a bone health clinic can advise you on calcium and vitamin D intake and provide exercise recommendations based on your personal health history. Medications to reduce your risk may also be discussed.

Rebecca Guio is a bone health nurse practitioner at Advocate Health Care.

Learn more about bone health services near you: Illinois | Wisconsin