Why Bone Health in Men Matters
Sibce osteoporosis is more common in women, the condition has received very little attention both in the Medical and public arena when it comes to men. Osteoporosis is often seen as a “women’s disease,” but 1 in 5 men over the age of 50 will experience an osteoporosis-related fracture in their lifetime. Men tend to be diagnosed later, and their fractures can be more fatal due to delayed treatment and other underlying conditions.
The cause in men is unknown but there is a strong link with reduction in levels of testosterone hormone.
What is Osteoporosis?
Osteoporosis is a condition where bones become weak and brittle, increasing the risk of fractures — especially in the hip, spine, and wrist.
Who Is at Risk?
Men over age 50
Family history of osteoporosis or fractures
Chronic use of steroids (e.g., for asthma, arthritis)
Smoking and heavy alcohol use
Low testosterone (hypogonadism)
Sedentary lifestyle or prolonged immobility
Poor calcium and vitamin D intake
Chronic diseases (e.g., kidney disease, gastrointestinal disorders, prostate cancer treatment)
Health Tips for Stronger Bones in Men
1. Get Enough Calcium and Vitamin D
Men aged 51–70 need 1,000 mg of calcium/day, increasing to 1,200 mg/day after 70
Vitamin D: 600–800 IU daily through sun exposure, fortified foods, or supplements
Sources: dairy, green leafy vegetables, sardines, fortified cereals, eggs, liver
2. Engage in Weight-Bearing Exercises
Include strength training (2–3 times/week) and daily activities like walking, hiking, and stair climbing
Avoid a sedentary lifestyle — long sitting hours reduce bone density over time
3. Avoid Smoking and Limit Alcohol
Smoking weakens bones and interferes with calcium absorption
Excessive alcohol reduces bone formation and increases fall risk
4. Get Screened
Bone Mineral Density (BMD) test: Recommended for men with risk factors or over 70
Men who’ve had fractures after minor falls should ask their doctor for screening
5. Manage Hormonal Health
Low testosterone levels contribute to bone loss
Men on prostate cancer treatment (androgen deprivation therapy) should have regular bone checks
6. Fall-Proof Your Environment
Install grab bars, improve lighting, and reduce clutter in older adults’ homes to prevent fractures
Where to Get Help in Kenya
Kenyatta National Hospital – Endocrinology Clinic
Aga Khan University Hospital – Bone Health and Endocrine Unit
St. Luke’s Orthopedic and Trauma Hospital, Eldoret
Nutritional counseling and supplements available in
Men are not immune to osteoporosis. Bone health is a lifelong investment — adopt a preventive lifestyle early, get screened if at risk, and talk to your doctor about maintaining strong, healthy bones.
