Osteoporosis In Men

Having always been considered a women’s disease, Osteoporosis is now known to affect men too. Osteoporosis, characterized by low bone mass and structural deterioration of bone tissue, results in bone fragility and increased risk for hip, wrist and spine fractures.

It occurs due to low Bone Mineral Density (BMD) and has been commonly seen in women after menopause. However, it may also be seen in elderly men and sometimes in some middle or young aged ones too, due to hormonal imbalances and chronic diseases or due to medication drugs like Cortisol (glucocorticoid).

Extensive osteoporosis studies were started in the 1960s with the understanding as to how osteoporosis affects the middle aged woman. Medication accompanied with certain lifestyle changes was deemed necessary. Mineral supplements and practical measures like exercises were devised to keep women fit and healthy.

Now osteoporosis is not just a women’s health issue. Rising rates of osteoporosis are seen among men, which are projected to increase by nearly 50% during the next 15 years, with rates of hip fractures expected to double by 2040. The affected include men above 70 or others, who are affected due to chronic diseases or medication side effects.

As bones begin to lose their mineral contents, supplements become necessary. Also exercises are important because they help in retention of bone mineral ratios. A change in lifestyle is important because, bone fissures in case of osteoporosis patients can occur even in situations where a normal healthy person would certainly not break a one.

Steps for prevention of Osteoporosis:-

1. Diet
One needs a minimum intake of certain minerals like calcium, phosphorus, etc and vitamins like vitamin D and K. The minerals can be obtained from milk and dairy products. Vitamin D is synthesized in sunlight and vitamin K can be found in green leafy vegetables. Hence, a good balanced diet takes care of them well enough.

2. Exercise
Exercises like running, jogging, presses and weight training builds muscle and bone density. This slows the rate of degradation of the bone tissue.

3. Lifestyle changes
Alcohol and smoking have been found to decrease bone strength. Smoking should be given up completely, while excessive drinking of alcohol is harmful in more ways than one.

Osteoporosis can not be treated as such, but the deterioration can be stopped. So it’s important now that even men get tested for bone mass concentration so that progression of osteoporosis can be stopped in the initial stages itself.