A perspective on male osteoporosis
1Osteoporosis Clinical Center and Research Program and Institute on Aging University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, USA. nbinkley@wisc.edu
Best Practice & Research. Clinical Rheumatology
|December 1, 2009
Summary
Osteoporosis is common in aging men, causing fractures more than many cancers. Early recognition and treatment are crucial to reduce the significant morbidity and mortality associated with male osteoporosis.
Area of Science:
- Geriatric Medicine
- Endocrinology
- Orthopedics
- Public Health
Background:
- Osteoporosis and fragility fractures are increasingly prevalent in aging men.
- Fracture incidence in men rivals myocardial infarction and surpasses combined lung and prostate cancer rates.
- Male hip fracture mortality exceeds that of females, highlighting a significant health concern.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the contributing factors to bone loss and fracture risk in men.
- To outline current and recommended approaches for reducing fracture risk in the male population.
- To emphasize the need for increased diagnosis and treatment of male osteoporosis.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on male osteoporosis, risk factors, and management strategies.
- Analysis of epidemiological data comparing fracture incidence and mortality in men and women.
- Synthesis of current consensus recommendations for fracture risk assessment and treatment.
Main Results:
- Bone loss in men is multifactorial, influenced by declining sex steroids, glucocorticoid use, and alcohol consumption.
- Effective fracture risk reduction strategies for men mirror those for women, focusing on muscle strength, fall prevention, nutrition (calcium, vitamin D), and pharmacotherapy.
- Male osteoporosis is significantly underdiagnosed and undertreated despite its high prevalence and severe consequences.
Conclusions:
- Increased awareness among healthcare providers and men is essential for improving osteoporosis diagnosis and management.
- Implementing consensus-based fracture-risk estimation and treatment guidelines can mitigate the burden of fragility fractures in men.
- Addressing male osteoporosis is critical for reducing morbidity, mortality, and healthcare costs associated with fragility fractures.
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