Osteoporosis is often thought of as “A Woman’s Disease,” when in fact, loss of bone density resulting in osteoporosis affects millions of men as well. While the causes of decreased bone density differ some between men and women, the good news is that male osteoporosis is sometimes attributable to lifestyle habits that can be changed and thereby delay - if not avoid - the onset of osteoporosis in men. Osteoporosis differs between the sexes. First, by their thirties, men have accumulated significantly more bone mass than women have. As both sexes age, bone loss gradually outpaces new bone growth. Following menopause, women lose significantly more bone than men do; however, by age 65-70, both sexes lose bone mass at the same rate.

Bone mineral density examination is typically done through X-rays focused on the hip and lower spine regions where fractures and the early signs of osteoporosis manifest as bones begin to thin from the disease. The seriousness of this condition is revealed by the fact that osteoporosis causes long-term loss of mobility that requires extensive patient care.

The most common type of osteoporosis is age-related bone loss. While age plays a major role in bone loss, secondary causes such as lifestyle behaviors, disease and medications also contribute to the disease in men. In men, the most common causes include low levels of testosterone, alcohol abuse, smoking, glucocorticoid medications, hypoercalcuria (calcium lost in the urine) and immobilization.

Once a diagnosis is made, treatment can include medications, hormone therapy, mineral supplements, physical activity and recommendations for lifestyle changes.

For men to lessen their risk of developing osteoporosis, the NIH’s Osteoporosis and Related Bone Diseases National Resource Center recommends the following practices:

• Avoid smoking, reduce alcohol intake, and increase your level of physical activity.

• Ensure a daily calcium intake that is adequate for your age.

• Ensure an adequate intake of vitamin D. Dietary vitamin D intake should be 600 IU (International Units) per day up to age 70. Men over age 70 should increase their uptake to 800 IU daily. The amount of vitamin D found in 1 quart of fortified milk and most multivitamins is 400 IU.

• Engage in a regular regimen of weight-bearing exercises in which bones and muscles work against gravity. This might include walking, jogging, racquet sports, climbing stairs, team sports, weight training, and using resistance machines. A doctor should evaluate the exercise program of anyone already diagnosed with osteoporosis to determine if twisting motions and impact activities, such as those used in golf, tennis, or basketball, need to be curtailed.

• Discuss with your doctor the use of medications that are known to cause bone loss, such as glucocorticoids.

• Recognize and seek treatment for any underlying medical conditions that affect bone health.