Many men are often surprised when they receive an osteoporosis diagnosis, as it typically isn’t on their health radar. And so, it’s time to discuss a health topic that clearly is not talked about enough— osteoporosis in men.
Osteoporosis is considered largely a “women’s disease” by many. This however, is a myth. Osteoporosis poses a huge problem for men, especially those beyond the age of 50. The problem lies in the fact that very rarely are people diagnosed with osteoporosis until after a fracture has occurred. Most fractures occur at the spinal bones, hip bones, or wrist bones. The sooner one starts paying attention to bone health, the better are the chances to avoid serious fractures with age.
When the condition is overlooked in men, it can predispose them to serious fractures that may leave them with a dramatic change in their quality of life. It is important to understand how this occurs, who is at risk, and—most importantly—how to take action regarding your bone health, by first getting tests as part of your regular visits to the doctor.
Men are vulnerable
While it is more often suspected of in postmenopausal females due to oestrogen playing an important role in bone density, it is crucial to not lose sight of the fact that men too, are subject to the same elements that cause bones to deteriorate over time. In fact, studies show as many as 8-20% of men in India have osteoporosis, and the prevalence only goes up with age. Indian men are at risk for osteoporotic fractures, particularly hip fractures, and the total number of fractures is poised to increase dramatically in the decades ahead, as our population ages.
In men the bones are initially denser than in women, but over time, they too lose bone density. Men over the age of 50 will have fractures at increasing rates just as women do, but at a slower pace than women. Men’s rate of bone loss will catch up with them when they enter their 70s and 80s, and this is when they will experience fractures due to low bone density.
In fact, 1 out of every 3 hip fractures that occur worldwide are in men. These fractures are especially dangerous, since they can be debilitating, affecting every aspect of the individual’s life, with reduced mobility, loss of independence and mental health trauma all likely to ensue from such incidents.
Men are at also a higher risk for fractures because they tend to be more physically active compared to women as they age.
Risk factors
The age factor: After the age of 50, the level of testosterone in the body naturally drops. Testosterone helps keep bones strong, and so, age is a risk factor, as bones deteriorate with a decline in testosterone, and this becomes noticeable the older men grow. The absence of adequate physical activity after the age of 50 compounds this.
Insufficient activity: – Insufficient weight-bearing activity is a risk factor for young males. This is exacerbated by poor lifestyle factors such as slouching over a desk for excessive periods, a lack of fruits and vegetables in the diet, and excessive alcohol consumption. These habits are not only associated with gaining weight but they also worsen bone brittleness as men age.
Co-morbid conditions: With age, many men may also have co-morbid conditions such as diabetes. Other conditions that lead to low testosterone such as hyperthyroidism in males can also be a factor. Long-term steroid treatment (for instance, for asthma or arthritis) can also precipitate osteoporosis through age.
Smoking and alcohol: Nicotine and alcohol abuse are considered stressors to bone development. They selectively deplete calcium and lead to lower bone mass. Alcohol also has direct effects and impacts immunity and metabolism. Both tobacco use and alcohol should be minimised to ensure better bone strength.
Calcium and vitamin D deficiency: Without calcium and vitamin D you are risking brittle bones. Vitamin D aids in the absorption of calcium. Many men spend too little time getting sunlight and end up with vitamin deficiencies, often without knowing it.
Also Read: Osteoporosis can shorten your life − here’s how to prevent fractures and keep bones healthy
Protecting bones
Men can protect bone health with some healthy habits.
Move: Aim for at least 30 minutes of weight-bearing exercise like walking, jogging or resistance exercise to stimulate the body to create and maintain bone mass.
Eat a bone-healthy diet: Aim for 1,000 to 1,200mg of calcium and 600-800 IU of vitamin D per day from dairy, vegetables, or supplements.
Decrease smoking and alcohol: Aim to stop smoking and limit alcohol to two units per day to protect your bones.
Get screened: If you are older than 50 or younger than 50 with risk factors, talk to your doctor about getting a screening with a bone scan.
Fall prevention
Use anti-skid footwear, also known as slip-resistant or non-slip shoes; avoid entering poorly-lit rooms, avoid walking in cluttered spaces and install grab bars and non-skid mats in restrooms. Anti-slip tapes are a simple and effective way to increase safety and prevent falls on staircases.
Remember, osteoporosis does not just affect women. Take care of your bones — your future self will appreciate it!
(Dr. Kumardev Arvind Rajamanya is head of department and lead consultant – orthopaedics, Aster Whitefield Hospital, Bengaluru. kumardev.rajamanya@asterhospital.in)
Published – August 25, 2025 01:23 pm IST
