While heart disease and diabetes often top the list of men’s health concerns, doctors are warning about a quieter but equally dangerous condition: osteoporosis. Often dismissed as a “women’s disease,” this bone-thinning condition is silently affecting millions of men—most of whom don’t even realize they’re at risk until it’s too late.
According to recent global estimates, over 2 million men have already been diagnosed with osteoporosis in the United States alone, while millions more suffer from low bone density, a precursor to the disease. Experts say the real number could be significantly higher due to widespread underdiagnosis.
“The biggest issue with osteoporosis in men is that it rarely causes symptoms until a fracture occurs,” says Dr. Pradeep Mehta, a senior orthopedic consultant based in Mumbai. “And by that point, the damage is already done.”
A Gender Bias in Bone Health?
Osteoporosis has long been associated with post-menopausal women, but studies now show that men are not only at risk—they may suffer more severe consequences. Hip fractures in men over 65, for example, are linked to a higher risk of mortality within a year compared to women.
Despite these dangers, awareness remains alarmingly low. Surveys reveal that less than 10% of men consider bone health a priority, and fewer still undergo preventive screening.
Four Powerful Ways Men Can Protect Their Bones
Health experts are urging men—particularly those over 40—to take proactive steps to protect their skeletal health. Here are four science-backed strategies:
1. Check Hormone Levels Early
Men experience a gradual decline in testosterone after the age of 30. Low testosterone has been directly linked to bone loss. Routine hormone tests can help identify issues early.
2. Start Weight-Bearing Exercises
Activities such as walking, jogging, climbing stairs, and strength training stimulate bone formation and improve balance, reducing the risk of falls. Just 30 minutes a day can make a significant difference.
3. Focus on Nutrition
A balanced diet rich in calcium and Vitamin D is essential for strong bones. Men should consume dairy, leafy greens, nuts, and fatty fish—or consider supplements if their diet falls short.
4. Get a Bone Density Scan
The DEXA scan, a simple and painless test, measures bone mineral density and helps detect early signs of osteoporosis. Men over 50 or with risk factors—such as smoking, a sedentary lifestyle, or family history—are strongly advised to get screened.
Silent, but Not Unstoppable
Though osteoporosis often strikes silently, it’s far from unstoppable. In cases where fractures do occur, treatments like vertebroplasty and kyphoplasty can offer relief. These minimally invasive procedures help restore spine structure and relieve pain by injecting special bone cement into weakened areas.
Public health advocates say it’s time to change the narrative around osteoporosis and include men in prevention campaigns.
“Bone health should not be a gendered issue,” Dr. Mehta adds. “Every man above 40 should be aware of the risks and act early.”
Bottom Line
Osteoporosis is a real and rising threat to men’s health, made more dangerous by the lack of awareness. By staying informed, getting screened, and embracing healthier habits, men can protect themselves from fractures, loss of independence, and long-term complications.
Strong bones aren’t just for women. They’re for life.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. Can men really get osteoporosis?
Yes. While more common in women, millions of men suffer from osteoporosis or low bone density, especially after the age of 50.
Q2. What causes osteoporosis in men?
Common causes include low testosterone, aging, sedentary lifestyle, poor diet, smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and certain medications or chronic illnesses.
Q3. How can men check if they have osteoporosis?
A DEXA scan (Dual-Energy X-ray Absorptiometry) is the most accurate test to measure bone density and detect osteoporosis early.
Q4. What are early warning signs of osteoporosis in men?
Most men have no symptoms until a bone breaks. However, loss of height, back pain, or a stooped posture could be signs of weakened bones.
Q5. Can osteoporosis in men be reversed?
While bone loss cannot always be fully reversed, medications, diet changes, and lifestyle modifications can slow progression and reduce fracture risk.
