Osteoporosis and Men - The Skeleton in the Closet

In the absence of specific symptoms, this disease is frequently diagnosed after a fragility fracture has already occurred. The following bone-fortifying tips will help you minimize your risk for developing osteoporosis.

ELIMINATE OR MODIFY CERTAIN RISKS WHILE YOU ARE YOUNG AND HEALTHY

• Smoking, alcohol consumption and a sedentary lifestyle have been shown to increase the risk for osteoporosis by decreasing bone density. Whenever possible, all should be avoided.
• Certain medications have been known to cause bone loss, which can facilitate the onset of osteoporosis. If you are currently prescribed such medications including glucocorticoids (steroid medications), discuss a reduced dosage or other alternatives with a medical professional.
• Daily exposure to sunlight will typically produce enough Vitamin D in the body. If your exposure is limited, a daily dietary supplement of Vitamin D can make up for this deficiency. Consult with your physician to determine your need for a supplement as well as to ensure the proper dosage.




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• Know your score. Undergo a bone mineral deterioration (BMD) test to measure your current bone density. Your T-score will compare your BMD to that of healthy individuals, while your Z-score will indicate the number of deviations that your BMD differs from the average BMD for your age, sex, and ethnicity. A T-score of -2.5 or lower is the standard used for the diagnosis of osteoporosis.
• Certain conditions render men more susceptible to type 2 osteoporosis including hypogonadism (testosterone deficiency), cystic fibrosis, gastrointestinal diseases, and hypercalciuria (excessive calcium loss through urination), to name a few. Discuss your overall health with your physician to find out if you suffer from any condition that puts you at a higher risk for decreased bone density.
• Prolonged immobility can also contribute to a reduction in bone density. Weight-bearing exercises will help to keep your bones and muscles healthy, and will act as a form of proactive fall-prevention. These exercises include activities such as walking, weight lifting, jogging, or dancing.

Unfortunately, nothing can be done to stop the hands of time. The risk for the onset of osteoporosis will inevitably increase with age. Osteoporosis can affect the quality of life as well as life expectancy, with some hip fractures having the added risk of contracting pneumonia, suffering a pulmonary embolism, or developing the condition of deep venous thrombosis. These added complications have been shown to increase the six-month mortality rates post fracture. If you have already been diagnosed with osteoporosis, your doctor may prescribe a medication that is approved for the treatment of this disease. This treatment should be used in conjunction with proper nutrition, regular exercise, and other bone loss prevention measures.

When it comes to matters of your health, don't leave your skeletons in the closet. Taking steps to reduce or minimize your risks now will improve your quality of life, should you face the challenge of osteoporosis, as you grow older.

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