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Updated: Jun 5, 2026

Trabecular Bone Microarchitecture Evaluation in an Osteoporosis Mouse Model
Published on: September 8, 2023
Gender differences in osteoporosis and fractures.
1San Francisco Coordinating Center, California Pacific Medical Center Research Institute, 185 Berry Street, Lobby 5, Suite 5700, San Francisco, CA 94107-1762, USA. pcawthon@sfcc-cpmc.net
Osteoporosis affects millions of men, yet they experience worse outcomes and lower treatment rates than women. Improving screening and treatment for osteoporosis, regardless of gender, is crucial for fracture prevention.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Orthopedics
- Public Health
Background:
- Osteoporosis is often perceived as a women's disease due to higher prevalence and fracture rates in postmenopausal women.
- However, a significant number of men, at least 2.8 million in the US, are affected by osteoporosis and related fractures.
- This highlights a critical gap in understanding and addressing osteoporosis in the male population.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine gender-based differences in osteoporosis and fracture risk.
- To investigate disparities in fracture treatment and patient outcomes between men and women.
- To propose strategies for mitigating these disparities in osteoporosis prevention and management.
Main Methods:
- A literature review was conducted using MEDLINE and author references.
- The review was selective, without formal search strategies or exclusion criteria.
- Analysis focused on current knowledge and future directions in osteoporosis care.
Main Results:
- Postmenopausal women exhibit higher osteoporosis prevalence and fracture incidence compared to older men.
- Despite higher risks, older men face poorer outcomes and lower treatment rates post-fracture.
- Multifaceted interventions for osteoporosis screening and treatment have been developed.
Conclusions:
- Improving osteoporosis treatment rates for all at-risk individuals, irrespective of gender, is a key management goal.
- Further research and evaluation of cost-effective interventions are needed for screening and treatment.
- Enhanced interventions are essential for effective primary prevention of fractures in both men and women.
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