Osteoporosis in men: underappreciated and undertreated

Osteoporotic fractures of the vertebrae and the proximal end of the femur dramatically impair quality of life and increase morbidity and mortality. Although up to 40% of all osteoporotic fractures occur in men, physicians tend to underestimate the osteoporosis in men, and it remains underdiagnosed and undertreated. Though, there is no evidence that current approved osteoporosis medications work any less well in men than in women, insufficient awareness of the risk of fractures, fear of side effects of drugs and other barriers have made management challenging in men at risk for fracture. Our review provides updates on pathophysiology and current options for diagnosis and treatment of male osteoporosis.