Osteoporosis in men is substantially underdiagnosed, undertreated and inadequately researched. Rates are expected to increase by nearly 50% in the next 15 years as the population ages. Sufferers are vulnerable to hip fractures, which are projected to double or triple by 2040.
New guidelines: Men over age 50 should be assessed for osteoporosis risk factors, according to the American College of Physicians.
In my view, low body weight, inactivity and weight loss are strong predictors of increased risk for osteoporosis. Most vulnerable are smokers, heavy alcohol drinkers, men with testosterone deficiency and those who have been on steroid therapy. I agree that it is smart for men to join women in being screened for osteoporosis beginning at age 50.
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