Osteoporosis in Men
Osteoporosis is a disease characterized by a decrease in bone density and quality, causing bones to become fragile, brittle, and more susceptible to fractures. While it is commonly associated with postmenopausal women, osteoporosis can also affect men. Here is what you need to know about osteoporosis in men:
- Prevalence: Osteoporosis is more prevalent in women, but it is still a significant health concern for men. The incidence of osteoporosis in men increases with age, and it is more common in older adults. Globally about one in five men over the age of 50 will break a bone due to an osteoporosis diagnosis. Because men tend to experience their first fracture at an older age than women, on average men are more likely than women to suffer severe consequences or death as a result of a fracture. One in three hip fractures occur in men, and studies indicate that 37% of male osteoporosis patients die within a year of suffering a hip fracture.
- Risk factors: Several risk factors can contribute to the development of osteoporosis in men, including:
- Aging: Bone mass naturally decreases with age, making older men more susceptible. While women lose bone mass more rapidly than men in their menopausal years, after the age of 70 men and women lose bone mass at approximately the same rate as the ability to absorb calcium diminishes in each sex.
- Low testosterone levels: Testosterone plays a crucial role in maintaining bone density, and low levels can contribute to bone loss. Roughly 12% of men will experience primary or secondary hypogonadism (testosterone deficiency). Keep in mind androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) treating prostate cancer can also cause low testosterone levels.
- Family history: A family history of osteoporosis increases men’s risk of developing osteoporosis. If your parents suffered fractures or were diagnosed with osteoporosis, make sure you let your healthcare provider know.
- Chronic diseases: Certain medical conditions, such as rheumatoid arthritis, diabetes, and some gastrointestinal disorders can increase the risk of osteoporosis.
- Lifestyle factors: Poor diet, lack of exercise, smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and long-term use of certain medications such as glucocorticoids can all contribute to osteoporosis in men.
- Symptoms: Osteoporosis is often referred to as a “silent disease” because it doesn’t usually cause noticeable symptoms until a fracture occurs. Fractures in men with osteoporosis most commonly occur in the hip, spine, and wrist.
- Diagnosis: Osteoporosis is typically diagnosed through a bone density test called dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA or DXA) scan. This test measures bone mineral density and helps determine the risk of fractures. You can read more about diagnosing osteoporosis here.
- Importance of Awareness: Osteoporosis in men is often underdiagnosed and under treated because it’s considered a predominately female disease. Raising awareness about osteoporosis in men is crucial to ensuring early diagnosis and appropriate management.
- Prevention and Treatment: Preventative measures and treatment options for osteoporosis in men are similar to those for women and include:
- A balanced diet rich in calcium and vitamin D.
- Regular weight-bearing and muscle-strengthening exercises.
- Avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption.
- Fall-proofing your home, and wearing hip protection. Phoenix Hipwear offers the highest quality hip protection available on the market. Unlike traditional hip shields which are often impractical and bulky, Phoenix offers a flexible memory foam shield built into comfortable undergarments. Measure your hips today to get started, and continue living your independent, active lifestyle with Phoenix!
If you suspect you or someone you know may have osteoporosis or is at risk, it is essential to consult a healthcare professional for evaluation and appropriate management. For extra peace of mind, contact Phoenix Hipwear today to learn more about the most comfortable hip protection available!