Bone Health Isn't Just a Woman's ConcernMany men may rank heart disease as a top health concern. Focused on their hearts, they may ignore or not realize how important bone health is, too. Osteoporosis-a disease that weakens and greatly increases the risk for bone fracture-affects almost 9 million men in the U.S. Even though the condition is more common in women, it may be more harmful in men. ![]() A primer on your bonesMan or woman, your bones follow a similar pattern. In childhood and adolescence, the body builds up bone density as you grow. In your early 20s, you reach your peak bone mass-when the amount of bone in your body is at its highest. By your 30s and beyond, your body stops making new bone and starts losing it. Gradual, age-related bone loss is normal. But if you allow your bones to weaken too much, you may develop osteoporosis. Men are less likely to suffer from osteoporosis because they tend to be bigger in size-hence, they have more bone in their bodies. They also don't go through menopause, when a drop in estrogen increases bone loss. But that doesn't mean men are immune to the disease. More important, they tend to develop osteoporosis later in life. Like a thief, osteoporosis steals bone without your knowing it; it causes no symptoms. That can be particularly problematic for men. They are less likely to be screened for the disease, so they may not be aware of it until they break a bone. A major concern: hip fractures. Compared with women, men who suffer a broken hip are more likely to die afterward, usually from complications. Bone-building basicsCertain factors can raise a man's risk for osteoporosis, such as being 70 and older, being white, or having a family history of the disease. Other risk factors include:
The bottom line: Osteoporosis isn't just a women's concern. Any man can develop it. Being smart about bone health can help prevent it, though. Here are some bone-building tips:
Always talk with your health care provider to find out more information. Online Resources(Our Organization is not responsible for the content of Internet sites.) Hormone Health Network - Patient Guide to Osteoporosis in Men Osteoporosis and Related Bone Diseases National Resource Center - Osteoporosis in Men |
May 2013 |