Osteoporosis – a disease which leads to brittle and weak bones – doesn’t just pose a threat to women, but to millions of men as well.
On World Osteoporosis Day (20 October), a prevention-minded pharmaceutical company that specialises in men’s and women’s health, is increasing awareness of the disease specifically among men to help reduce fractures in SA’s aging male population.
Nicole Jennings, spokesperson for Pharma Dynamics, says of the country’s 4.3 million men that are over the age of 50, nearly a million are likely to develop osteoporosis. That’s roughly, one in five men.
“For years, osteoporosis hasn’t been properly treated in men, despite a third of all hip fractures worldwide befalling them.
“The high incidence of hip and vertebral fractures in men, as well as the impact it has on their quality of life, highlights that osteoporosis is not only a woman’s disease and that it should be screened for and treated the same as for women.
“It is something which is routinely checked when women reach menopause, since the drop in oestrogen levels results in bone loss. However, all men over the age of 50 should be screened,” she encourages.
According to the International Osteoporosis Foundation, ageing populations and urbanisation are primarily responsible for the rise in osteoporosis cases. Since 1950, ten times the number of older men have developed the disease. By 2050, an estimated 900 million men are likely to suffer from it.
Jennings explains there are two types of osteoporosis, namely, “primary osteoporosis”, which is typically caused by age-related bone loss and “secondary osteoporosis”, which could be related to either vitamin D deficiency, inadequate calcium intake, an overactive thyroid, low levels of testosterone, use of medication that alters bone metabolism, like glucocorticoid medications or hormonal treatments for prostate cancer.
“Unhealthy lifestyle factors also play a role. These include poor diet, alcohol abuse, smoking and not getting enough exercise. A family history, low body mass index (BMI) or smaller bone structure also play a part in osteoporosis risk.”
To limit your risk of osteoporosis, Jennings recommends the following action:
1. Consume foods that are rich in calcium and vitamin D. If you’re not sure of your dietary intake, ask your doctor or pharmacists about using supplements. Daily sun exposure is another healthy way of getting enough vitamin D.
2. Do 30-40 minutes of weight-bearing exercises, like weight training, hiking, stair-climbing, walking, jogging etc at least three to four times a week.
3. Limit alcohol consumption to no more than two units per day.
4. Quit smoking immediately as it increases your risk of a fragility fracture and hip fracture by 29% and 68% respectively.
5. Go for a screening to assess your risk. If you fall into a high-risk category, take your medication as prescribed.
While osteoporosis cannot be completely reversed, men (and women) can incorporate healthy habits as part of their daily routine to improve bone health.
Jennings says medications like alendronate, which belongs to a class of non-hormonal medicines known as bisphosphonates can help to rebuild bone and reduce the risk of fractures.
“It’s equally important to avoid activities that involves twisting your spine or bending forward from the waist that could lead to fractures. The risk of falling should also be decreased, especially at home or wherever you spend the most of your time.”
Some of the ways you can make your home safer include:
- Installing handrails on both sides of the stairs, as well as in bathrooms near the toilet, in the bath and shower.
2. Good lighting is a must at the top and bottom of the stairs, as well as long passageways.
3. Keeping all walkways tidy and clear of clutter.
4. Installing non-slip tiles and/or fixing carpets to the floor.
5. Replacing broken or uneven tiles and paving inside and outside the house.
6. Store frequently used items in an easy to reach place.
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