Do Men Have Osteoporosis?

Osteoporosis is not just a woman’s disease. Not as many men have it as women do, but men need to worry about it as well. This may be because most men start with more bone density than women and lose it more slowly as they grow older.

Experts don’t know as much about this disease in men as they do in women. However, many of the things that put men at risk are the same as those for women:

• family history

• not enough calcium or vitamin D

• too little exercise

• low levels of testosterone

• too much alcohol

• taking certain drugs

• smoking.

Older men who break a bone easily or are at risk for osteoporosis should talk with their doctors about testing and treatment. Men can use bisphsphonates or parathyroid hormone to increase bone density. Testosterone supplements may help some men with low levels of testosterone.

Source: National Institute on Aging

Part 1: Osteoporosis - The Bone Thief

Part 2: Osteoporosis - How Can I Keep My Bones Strong?

Part 3: What Can I Do About My Osteoporosis?

Part 4: How Can I Keep From Falling?

Part 5: Men and Osteoporosis