The disease has not been as well studied in men as in women. Most prevention and treatment recommendations are based on studies in women. However, many of the risk factors for men are the same as those for women — smoking, not enough calcium or vitamin D, too much alcohol, family history, too little exercise, and taking certain drugs.
Low levels of testosterone in older men may increase their loss of bone and chance of hip fracture.
Older men who fracture a bone easily or have risk factors for osteoporosis should get a DEXA-scan. If the scan shows osteoporosis, a man should talk with his doctor about which treatment is best for him. Choices are much like those suggested for older women except for estrogen and raloxifene. These drugs have not been well studied in men and are not presently prescribed for osteoporosis prevention or treatment in men. Testosterone supplements may help some men with low levels of testosterone.
