Wojciech P.Olszynski, MD, PhD, FRCPC, Clinical Professor of Medicine,University of Saskatchewan, Director, Saskatoon Osteoporosis Centre, Saskatoon, SK.
Though osteoporosis occurs less frequently in men than in women, it is nonetheless a significant medical problem. Osteoporotic vertebral fractures in particular are as common for men as for women, and about one-third of all hip fractures occur in men. As a consequence of fragility fractures, the associated morbidity and mortality are higher in men than women, particularly after fracture of the hip. Idiopathic osteoporosis is common; however, secondary causes are found in about 50% of cases. Bone density measurements should be advised for every man over 65 years of age and for younger men in the presence of osteoporosis risk factors. For practical purposes, the use of T-score <= 2.5 for men over age 65 should be used for the diagnosis of osteoporosis.
Key words: osteoporosis, men, fracture, diagnosis, treatment
Epidemiology
Osteoporosis is a skeletal disorder characterized by compromised bone strength predisposing a person to an increased risk of fracture.
