Low bone mineral density risk factors for men revealed

Major risk factors for low bone mineral density in men have been identified in a new study published in the journal Osteoporosis International.

Bone mineral density (BMD) is the amount of bone per cubic centimetre. Low levels of BMD can lead to osteoporosis, which occurs when bones lose matter and become more fragile.

Fractures are more likely to occur in people with the condition, which develops gradually as they become older. The process of bone loss speeds up in women in the ten years following menopause.

Osteoporosis is more common in women as the hormone oestrogen, which is produced by the ovaries during the menstruation years, is not present in men. In addition, men have stronger bones than women to begin with.

However, men are not excluded from developing the condition and in recent years, there has been a growing focus in the medical profession on male osteoporosis.

Now researchers led by Dr A Papaioannou of McMaster University in Canada have reviewed a number of studies into the risk factors for low BMD in men. They analysed the findings of 642 articles appearing in different medical publications and found that there were many factors which increased the risk of low BMD and bone loss in men.

Major risk factors identified were "advancing age, smoking and low weight/weight loss", the researchers noted.

"Although less evidence was available, physical/functional limitations and prevalent fracture (after age 50) were also associated with low BMD/bone loss.

"The evidence was inconsistent or weak for physical activity, alcohol consumption, calcium intake, muscle strength, family history of fracture/osteoporosis, and height/height loss."

A spokeswoman for the Arthritis Research Campaign commented: "Many people are very surprised to learn that men can get osteoporosis as well as women.

"Raising awareness of this fact is vital if the condition is to be properly diagnosed and treated. Often the first sign of a problem can be a bone fracture so it is vital that men are equally aware of the risk factors and consult their GP if they are concerned."

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