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Osteoporosis in Men is Underdiagnosed

Osteoporosis or brittle bones has been considered a woman's disease for a long time. But new data shows it is a major problem for many men. In fact 30 percent of all hip fractures occur in men as a result of osteoporosis. In this report, Dr. Wright from the University of Pittsburgh reviews current facts about osteoporosis in men.

Fact:

  • More than two million men have osteoporosis in the United States.
  • Osteoporosis is a silent disease. It is often diagnosed after a hip or spine fracture.
  • Men hospitalized for hip fracture are twice as likely as women to die in the next 12 months.
  • Inactivity, alcohol, and smoking are major risk factors for osteoporosis.
  • Osteoporosis and fractures caused by osteoporosis can be prevented.

    Studies show that men who have osteoporosis are often undiagnosed. Or if they are diagnosed, they are under treated. And the number of men with osteoporosis is expected to increase 300 percent over the next 40 years.

    The exact cause of osteoporosis is often unknown. Aging, changing hormone levels, and reduced growth factors may be part of the picture. Osteoporosis is often linked with some other disease or problem. This could include medications, endocrine disorders, or lifestyle choices. Personal choices such as chronic alcohol use, smoking, or inactivity have profound effects on bone health.

    • Reference: 

    Vonda J. Wright, MD. Osteoporosis in Men. In Journal of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. June 2006. Vol. 14. No. 6. Pp. 347-353.

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