Can men get osteoporosis? 

Yes, men absolutely can get osteoporosis. While it is often discussed as a condition primarily affecting women after the menopause, it is a significant health issue for men as well. In the UK, approximately one in five men over the age of 50 will experience a fracture due to osteoporosis. Because it is frequently overlooked in the male population, men are often diagnosed only after they have suffered a painful break, such as a fractured hip or spine. Understanding that bone health is a universal concern is the first step toward prevention and early intervention. 

What We’ll Discuss in This Article 

• The prevalence of osteoporosis in the male population in the UK 

• Key risk factors specific to men, including testosterone levels 

• Why men are often diagnosed later than women 

• Secondary causes of bone loss: Alcohol, steroids, and smoking 

• The UK pathway for diagnosis and DEXA scanning in men 

• Treatment options and lifestyle changes for male bone health 

One in five men in the UK will suffer a fragility fracture. 

Osteoporosis is often called a ‘silent disease’ because bone loss occurs without any outward symptoms until a bone breaks. While women lose bone density rapidly after the menopause due to falling oestrogen, men tend to lose bone more gradually as they age. However, by the age of 65 or 70, men and women lose bone mass at roughly the same rate. 

According to the Royal Osteoporosis Society, men often have larger, stronger bones to begin with, which can delay the onset of fractures. However, when men do suffer a hip fracture, the clinical outcomes can be more severe, with a higher rate of complications during recovery compared to women. 

Specific risk factors for male osteoporosis. 

In many cases, osteoporosis in men is ‘secondary,’ meaning it is caused by an underlying medical condition or a specific lifestyle factor. 

Risk Factor	Impact on Bone Health
Low Testosterone	Testosterone is vital for maintaining bone density in men. Hypogonadism can lead to rapid bone thinning.
Corticosteroids	Long-term use of steroid tablets (like prednisolone) for asthma or arthritis is a leading cause of bone loss.
Alcohol Consumption	Heavy drinking interferes with the balance of calcium and the bone-building process.
Smoking	Chemicals in tobacco smoke are toxic to bone cells and reduce the absorption of calcium.
Glucocorticoids	Often prescribed for inflammatory conditions, these are a major contributor to male bone loss in the UK.

The NHS also notes that a family history of hip fractures or a very low body mass index (BMI) can increase a man’s risk significantly. 

Why is diagnosis often delayed in men? 

Because of the misconception that osteoporosis only affects women, many men do not consider their bone health until a fracture occurs. 

• The ‘Silent’ Nature: Men are less likely to be screened for bone density as part of routine health checks. 

• Under-reporting of Symptoms: Men may dismiss height loss or a changing back shape as ‘just getting older.’ 

• Lack of Awareness: There is a lower level of public health messaging targeted at men regarding bone mineral density. 

In the UK, if a man over 50 suffers a fracture from a minor fall, the NICE guidelines state he should be assessed for osteoporosis, usually via a DEXA scan. 

The UK referral pathway for men. 

If you are concerned about your bone health, the process for diagnosis is the same as for women: 

1. GP Consultation: Discuss your risk factors, such as previous fractures, steroid use, or family history. 

2. FRAX Assessment: Your GP will use the FRAX tool to calculate your ten-year probability of a major fracture. 

3. DEXA Scan: If your risk is high, you will be referred for a bone density scan. 

4. Blood Tests: Men often require additional blood tests to check testosterone levels, thyroid function, and vitamin D levels to identify any secondary causes of bone loss.  

Conclusion 

Men are not immune to osteoporosis, and the consequences of the condition can be just as serious for them as for women. While men often start with higher bone mass, factors like low testosterone, lifestyle choices, and certain medications can lead to significant bone thinning. In the UK, one in five men over 50 will experience a fracture, making it essential for men to be proactive about their skeletal health. By identifying risk factors early and seeking a DEXA scan when appropriate, men can access the same effective treatments that are available to women. If you are concerned about your bone strength or have had a recent fall, seek a medical review. If you experience severe, sudden, or worsening symptoms, call 999 immediately. 

Authority Snapshot (E-E-A-T Block) 

This article examines the clinical reality of male osteoporosis within the UK healthcare system. It has been written and reviewed by Dr. Stefan Petrov, a UK-trained physician, to ensure the information is accurate and reflects current NHS and NICE standards. The content is designed to raise awareness of bone health among the male population.