Osteoporosis in older men.

Historically, the focus in osteoporosis has been on postmenopausal women. In the past few years, information about osteoporosis in other populations, including men, has begun to emerge. Although less common in older men, osteoporosis nonetheless represents a major health concern. Approximately 30% of hip fractures worldwide occur in men, resulting in significant mortality and loss of independence. The incidence of osteoporotic fractures in men is increasing. The reason for this is unclear, but improvement in longevity and better management of other chronic diseases most likely play a role. Two recent studies have addressed the question of fracture risk in men past middle age and have estimated that men > 50 years of age have a 19% to 25% lifelong risk of osteoporotic fracture. Mortality is higher following hip fracture and pain is more intense in men than in women following severe vertebral fracture.