Osteoporosis

Experts estimate that at least one man out of every twelve will develop osteoporosis at some point in his lifetime. We are all potentially at risk of osteoporosis because of the bone loss that occurs as we age.

Osteoporosis leads to the bones becoming thin and brittle, so that they break with relatively little trauma. Typically this leads to fractures in the spine, hips and wrists. The spinal fractures lead to loss of height and back pain. Unfortunately there may be few symptoms until the bones are quite thin, so the resulting back pain may be mistakenly attributed to arthritis or lumbago.

Men in the following situations are at particular risk:

• low levels of testosterone (male hormone)
• long term use of oral steroids (e.g. for asthma)
• various intestinal problems (e.g. inflammatory bowel disease or malabsorption)
• immobile (e.g. in a wheelchair or bed-bound)
• heavy drinker
• heavy smoker
• low body weight
• poor diet, lacking in calcium
• no weight-bearing exercise (e.g. walking)

Diagnosis is often delayed because an ordinary X-ray does not reliably show osteoporosis. A bone density scan is the best means of investigation, but sadly many hospitals don't have a scanner. Treatment for men includes:

• calcium-rich diet and supplements
• correction of testosterone deficiency
• bisphosphonate drugs, such as Etidronate