Update on osteoporosis in elderly men

Most nurses believe that osteoporosis is a problem of elderly women. Although the disease does occur primarily in women, aging men also are at risk. In fact, osteoporosis in elderly men typically causes greater morbidity and earlier mortality. Currently, no pharmacologic agents have been approved by the Food and Drug Administration to prevent or treat osteoporosis in this population. Several small clinical trials have been conducted in Europe, and several others are in progress in the United States. Geriatric nurses need to be aware of the risk of osteoporosis in elderly men and provide early counseling and prevention strategies.