Management of osteoporosis in older men

Area of Science:

• Gerontology
• Orthopedics
• Endocrinology

Background:

• Osteoporosis and fragility fractures pose significant health risks for older men, with poorer outcomes compared to women.
• Despite available diagnostic tools and treatments, a small percentage of high-risk older men receive osteoporosis therapy.
• The societal and individual burden of osteoporosis in men necessitates improved management strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the current evidence on osteoporosis and fragility fractures in older men.
• To highlight the burden, pathophysiology, diagnosis, and management of osteoporosis in this demographic.
• To inform clinical practice and research regarding male osteoporosis.

Main Methods:

• This narrative review synthesizes existing literature on osteoporosis in older men.
• It covers epidemiology, pathophysiology, clinical presentation, risk assessment, and treatment options.
• Evidence from clinical trials and observational studies is summarized.

Main Results:

• Fragility fractures are common in older men, with hip fractures having worse outcomes than in women.
• Underdiagnosis and undertreatment of osteoporosis are prevalent in high-risk older men.
• Effective diagnostic tools and therapeutic agents are available but underutilized.

Conclusions:

• Osteoporosis in older men is a significant, under-addressed health issue.
• Improved awareness, risk assessment, and timely treatment are essential for better patient outcomes.
• Further research is needed to strengthen the evidence base for managing male osteoporosis.