A Pilot Study to Identify Modifiable and Nonmodifiable Variables Associated With Osteopenia and Osteoporosis in Men

Osteoporosis is typically associated with women, but men can also be affected. Less is known about the factors influencing the development of osteoporosis in the male population. This pilot study attempted to identify variables associated with osteopenia or osteoporosis in men. The 101 male participants completed a questionnaire that examined modifiable and nonmodifiable variables: alcohol consumption, smoking, exercise history, fracture history as an adult, and family history of osteoporosis. Objective variables collected included age, height, and weight to calculate body mass index. Bone mineral density was calculated using dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry. Osteopenia or osteoporosis was identified in 62 of the male participants. Consumption of alcohol and cigarettes with higher body mass index was correlated with greater likelihood of osteopenia and osteoporosis.