Hey Guys, Mind Your Bones

A lot of guys probably like to think that osteoporosis is a disease exclusive to women. A lot of guys probably also like to think their mothers only had sex for reproductive purposes. Bummer. Can’t speak conclusively about the latter, but the first statement is a common and dangerous misconception. At least one in five men will experience a broken bone due to osteoporosis in their lifetime. In fact, out of about 30,000 hip fractures that occur in Canada every year, over one quarter happen to men. Let’s break it down further: 37% of men who suffer a hip fracture will die within a year of the incident. This means proportionately more men than women die as a result of a hip fracture. Guys are also more likely to require care in a long-term facility post hip fracture. In spite of the blatant evidence, men are less likely to seek treatment for bone fractures. They’re also less likely to take preventive bone loss measures. Men: If it’s a lack of information at fault, then you have no excuse now.

Evaluate Risk:

Do you have low testosterone levels? Have you had a bone fracture after the age of 50? Do you take glucocorticoid meds for asthma? Do you drink or smoke heavily? If you answered yes to any of these questions, your risk of developing osteoporosis is higher. Get regular bone scans starting in your 50’s. In the meantime, try to get 1,200 mg of calcium each day. Also aim for 800 IU of vitam