If you think only women need worry about osteoporosis, this may surprise you: Almost one-third of hip fractures due to osteoporosis occur in men.

Who Gets It
Estrogen and testosterone are important for maintaining strong bones. Both men and women lose bone density as they get older and their hormones decrease. Women’s estrogen levels experience a sharp dip at menopause. For men, the levels of estrogen and testosterone lessen gradually as they age. By age 65 or 70, men and women lose bone mass at about the same rate.

Men—as well as women—are more likely to get osteoporosis if they:

• Have a family history of it
• Are Caucasian or Asian
• Are thin and have small body frames
• Drink alcohol excessively
• Use glucocorticoid medicines—which treat asthma, rheumatoid arthritis, and other conditions—for several years
• Have gastrointestinal disorders, hyperthyroidism, a poor diet, or an inactive lifestyle

Prevention Tips
Don’t smoke. Cigarettes may damage bone directly or prevent your body from absorbing bone-building calcium and other nutrients.

• Watch your alcohol intake. Having more than two drinks a day can damage bone over time, in men of all ages. If you think you drink excessively, get help.
• Work out regularly. Weight-bearing exercise is vital for healthy bones. Walking, stair-climbing, and weight lifting are all good choices.

Living with Osteoporosis?
If you have osteoporosis, learn how to strengthen your bones and more at www.paramounthealthcare.com. Click on “Better Health for Life,” “O” in the encyclopedia at the top, and then “Osteoporosis.”