Men With Osteoporosis May Not Be Getting The Proper Screening

Statistics show that women are more likely to deal with osteoporosis--a health issue in which the bones become fragile and vulnerable to fracture. Of course, this doesn't mean that men shouldn't be concerned with the health issue, as well.

Recent findings published in the Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery reveal that many older men are missing out on vital osteoporosis screenings and treatments.

"Given that the prevalence of fragility fractures among men is expected to increase threefold by the year 2050, adequately evaluating and treating men for osteoporosis is of paramount importance," said lead study author, Tamara Rozental, MD, an investigator in BIDMC's Department of Orthopedic Surgery, in a news release.

For the study, researchers analyzed data on patients who suffered from a distal radial fracture between 2007 and 2012. This type of fracture also occurs near the wrist end of the radius, in which the larger bone is located in the forearm.

Findings revealed that while about 53 percent of female patients had Dual X-ray Absorpitometry, only about 18 percent of male patients underwent the same screening-a preferred technique to use in measuring bone mineral density.

Researchers also found that only about 21 percent of men received vitamin D supplements and calcium, while 55 percent of women did. 

Researchers concluded that health officials need to keep more of an eye on this health issue for men, as well.

It's also to remember the things that you can do in order to prevent osteoporosis risk. A diet filled with the right amount of calcium is essential. However, certain genetic factors may also make some more prone to the health issue than others. Make sure you talk to your doctor about the right steps to prevent this medical problem.