One in five men over 50 is at risk of osteoporosis, but most remain undiagnosed until a fracture strikes. It’s time to rethink male bone health.
For decades, osteoporosis have been viewed as a woman’s disease — a condition triggered by menopause and hormonal decline. But doctors are now seeing a steady rise in cases among men, many of whom are caught unawares until a fracture exposes the fragility of their bones. Orthopedics and geriatricians treating men above 60 say longer lifespans, lifestyle changes, and chronic habits such as smoking and alcohol consumption are quietly eroding men’s bone health.
8.9 million fractures caused by osteoporosis globally each year, 20 to 25% occur in men, a figure expected to rise as populations age. This progressive condition that thins and weakens bones and can lead to serious fractures will affect one in five men over age 50.
31,000 apparently healthy adults across India and found that nearly one in two showed signs of osteopenia (early signs of bone loss) and one in five men over 50.
Usually, men develop osteopenia or osteoporosis about 10-15 years after women, who begin to experience bone loss after menopause. But as the protective effects of testosterone diminish, bone degradation speeds up. Most male cases come to light only after a major fracture, when the damage is already severe. For many, such as injury can be life-altering or even life-threatening.
Many men believe they are “too strong for a fracture” and fail to recognize that their bones, too, become fragile with age. This misconception persists because because post-menopausal women are known to lose bone density due to declining estrogen levels, while men are seen as naturally protected. Experts warn that this mindset has made male osteoporosis a growing yet under-recognized public health health concern.
“Apart from lowered testosterone, a sedentary lifestyle, excessive smoking and dietary habits like increased caffeine and alcohol consumption makes bones weak. Since osteoporosis is asymptomatic, many directly come with osteoporotic fractures.”
A fracture due to such minimal force immediately aroused suspicion of osteoporosis.
Screening guidelines are mostly aimed at women, and awareness about osteoporosis in men remains low even among doctors. However, the high cost of a DEXA scan and the salient nature of the disease means patients are often in the dark.
“Osteoporosis is not curable, so bone health needs to be taken seriously.” It can be arrested or reversed partially with a combination of drugs plus calcium and vitamin D supplements.”
Beyond medication, doctors emphasize the importance of diet and exercise, especially strength training. Weight-bearing exercises cause gentle mechanical stress on the bones, which gradually strengthens them.”
Even proper chewing plays an indirect role in bone health. “Chewing is the first step in digestion and signals the stomach to secret digestive enzymes. The sequence of chewing, salivation, digestion, calcium absorption and stronger bones help protect against osteoporosis. Exposing your skin to sunlight for 20 minutes daily supports vitamin D production and bone health.
Equally important is keeping oneself well-hydrated and avoiding carbonated drinks.”
MEN MAY BE AT HIGHER RISK:
- Are over 50 and have had any kind of fracture after a minor fall or injury.
- Have a family history of hip or spine fractures.
- Smoke or drink alcohol regularly.
- Lead a sedentary lifestyle.
- Have rheumatoid arthritis, thyroid disorders, or Parkinson’s disease.
- Take long-term steroid or prostate cancer medications.
HOW TO KEEP YOUR BONES STRONG:
- Do regular weight-bearing and muscle-strengthening exercises.
- Get 20 minutes of sunlight daily for natural vitamin D.
- Eat calcium-rich foods; dairy, leafy greens, sesame, ragi, bony fish.
- Limit alcohol, caffeine and carbonated drinks.
- Avoid long-term use of acidity medicines without medical supervision.
