Osteoporosis, often seen as a women’s health issue, poses a dangerous and underrecognized threat to men—especially as they age. Experts warn that low bone density in men is a silent condition that can lead to sudden and serious fractures, drastically affecting quality of life and independence.
In recognition of Men’s Health Awareness Month this June, health professionals are urging men to take osteoporosis seriously. According to a recent national survey by The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, only 1% of men reported being concerned about bone density, despite the fact that millions are at risk.
The Hidden Numbers Behind Weak Bones
Dr. Paul Lewis, an interventional radiologist at Ohio State Wexner Medical Center, sees the consequences of this lack of awareness far too often.
“It’s a silent disease until it causes a fracture,” Lewis said. “By then, the damage can be life-altering.”
Data from the National Spine Health Foundation estimates that 2 million men in the U.S. already have osteoporosis, and another 16 million have low bone mass, a condition known as osteopenia. Yet, osteoporosis rarely shows symptoms before a fracture occurs, often from a seemingly minor fall or bump.
What Men Prioritize Instead
The Ohio State survey reveals that men are far more concerned with other health issues:
- 32% worry about cancer
- 30% worry about heart disease
- 18% are concerned about obesity
- 8% cite sexual health as their top priority
Osteoporosis didn’t even register as a significant concern for the vast majority.
Why Osteoporosis in Men Is So Dangerous
As men age, especially those who do not engage in regular resistance training, they can lose up to 3% of bone mass per year, starting as early as age 30 or 40, said Lewis, who also teaches at The Ohio State University College of Medicine.
This bone loss can lead to painful and debilitating fractures—particularly in the spine and pelvis—which can severely restrict movement and independence.
“Fractures in older adults are more than painful—they can be deadly,” Lewis warned.
Early Action Can Prevent Future Pain
The good news is that bone loss is not inevitable. Men can preserve—and even rebuild—bone strength through:
Regular exercise, especially weight-bearing and resistance training
Proper nutrition, including calcium and vitamin D
Avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol use
Dr. Lewis advises men to start conversations about bone health with their doctor around age 30—long before any issues arise.
“If we stay active longer, we see less bone loss,” he said.
Innovative Treatments for Spinal Fractures
For men already experiencing complications, advanced medical procedures offer hope. Interventional radiologists can treat spinal fractures caused by osteoporosis using minimally invasive procedures such as kyphoplasty and vertebroplasty.
Kyphoplasty: A balloon is inserted into the fractured vertebra to create a cavity, which is then filled with bone cement to stabilize the spine.
Vertebroplasty: Bone cement is directly injected into the vertebra for quick stabilization and pain relief.
These procedures are performed under twilight sedation, require no major surgery, and offer fast recovery times.
“They help patients regain mobility, relieve pain, and restore independence,” said Lewis.
Testosterone Loss: Another Silent Factor
Another contributor to weakening bones is the natural decline in testosterone as men age. This hormonal shift can further accelerate bone loss, making it even more critical to be proactive about screening and prevention.
Lewis stresses that by addressing osteoporosis early, men aren’t just avoiding fractures—they’re preserving their freedom and quality of life.
“We’re not just treating fractures—we’re helping people stay active, independent, and connected to life,” he said.
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