Osteoporosis is often framed as a women’s health issue, which means many men never see themselves as part of the conversation. That gap has real consequences. Older men, especially those living with chronic conditions, are quietly developing fragile bones without realising it, until a fall or fracture forces the issue into the open.
Recent local findings have highlighted how osteoporosis is going undiagnosed among older men with long-term health conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, and hormonal disorders. Many of these men are already in regular contact with doctors, yet bone health rarely comes up unless there is a visible injury. By then, the condition may already be advanced, making recovery slower and complications more likely.
Why osteoporosis in men is often missed
One of the biggest reasons osteoporosis flies under the radar in men is perception. Bone loss is still widely associated with postmenopausal women, while men are assumed to have stronger bones that last a lifetime. This belief delays testing, conversations, and preventive care.
Men also tend to seek medical help later than women, particularly for issues that do not cause immediate pain. Osteoporosis develops silently, with no early warning signs in most cases. Without routine checks, bone density can decline for years unnoticed.
There is also a clinical blind spot. When men present with chronic illnesses, medical appointments often focus on managing blood sugar, blood pressure, or cholesterol. Bone health becomes a secondary concern, even though long-term inflammation, certain medications, and hormonal changes all contribute to bone loss.
The link between chronic conditions and bone loss
Chronic conditions do more than affect day-to-day well-being. They can quietly weaken bones over time. Local research has shown that older men with ongoing health issues are at higher risk of osteoporosis, yet are less likely to be screened or diagnosed early.
Some contributing factors include:
- Long-term steroid use for conditions such as asthma or autoimmune disorders, which reduces bone density.
- Diabetes, which affects bone quality and healing capacity.
- Low testosterone levels, which play a direct role in maintaining bone strength.
- Reduced physical activity due to illness, leading to muscle loss and weaker bones.
These risks often overlap. A man managing multiple conditions may face compounded bone loss, even if each issue seems unrelated on its own.
Early signs men should not ignore
Osteoporosis does not announce itself loudly. That is part of what makes it dangerous. Many men only discover they have it after a fracture from a minor fall or simple movement.
That said, there are subtle signs worth paying attention to:
- Gradual loss of height over time
- Stooped posture or a noticeable curve in the upper back
- Persistent back pain without a clear injury
- Fractures that occur more easily than expected
These changes are often dismissed as normal ageing, but they can be indicators of weakening bones. Recognising these signs earlier can make a significant difference in outcomes.
Why men face higher risks after fractures
When osteoporosis-related fractures occur, men tend to experience more severe complications than women. Recovery can be slower, hospital stays longer, and the risk of further fractures higher.
Hip fractures, in particular, are associated with increased mortality in men. Reduced mobility after a fracture can also lead to muscle loss, balance issues, and a loss of independence. This creates a cycle where fear of falling limits activity, which further weakens bones and muscles. Addressing bone health earlier helps reduce these risks and supports healthier ageing overall.
Testing and diagnosis
Bone density scans are not just for women. For men over 50, especially those with chronic conditions or a history of fractures, testing can provide valuable insight into bone strength and future risk.
This is where the importance of screening becomes clear. A simple scan can identify bone loss before fractures occur, allowing preventive steps to begin early. Blood tests may also be used to assess hormone levels, vitamin D status, and other factors affecting bone health.
Despite this, many men are never referred for testing unless they ask or present with a fracture. Changing that pattern starts with awareness, both among patients and healthcare providers.
Treatment and management options for men
A diagnosis of osteoporosis is not the end of the road. With the right approach, bone loss can be slowed, and fracture risk reduced. Management often involves a combination of medical treatment and lifestyle adjustments.
Medical care may include osteoporosis treatment in Singapore that is tailored to male patients, taking into account hormone levels, existing conditions, and medication use. Treatment plans are not one-size-fits-all and should be reviewed regularly.
Lifestyle changes also play a meaningful role. These include:
- Weight-bearing and resistance exercises to strengthen bones and muscles.
- Adequate calcium and vitamin D intake through diet or supplements.
- Reducing smoking and excessive alcohol consumption.
- Fall prevention strategies at home and outdoors.
These steps work best when introduced early, rather than after a fracture has already occurred.
Shifting the conversation around men’s bone health
Osteoporosis in men remains under-discussed, partly because it does not fit long-standing health narratives. Yet the evidence shows clearly that men are affected, often later in life, and with serious consequences when left unaddressed.
Public awareness, supported by local research and clinical experience, is beginning to shift this narrative. Conversations around men’s health are expanding beyond heart disease and diabetes to include bone health as a key component of ageing well.
Encouraging men to ask questions, request assessments, and take bone health seriously is not about creating fear. It is about providing clarity and practical support before problems arise.
Conclusion
Healthy ageing is not just about living longer, but about maintaining strength, mobility, and independence. Bone health plays a central role in that picture, especially for men who may not realise they are at risk until it is too late.
By recognising the links between chronic conditions, silent bone loss, and fracture risk, men and their families can take proactive steps towards prevention and early care. Small actions, taken earlier, often lead to better long-term outcomes.
If you are concerned about bone health, unexplained fractures, or long-term conditions that may affect your bones, consider speaking with a specialist. LW Cho Endocrine Clinic offers comprehensive assessment and personalised care to support bone health at every stage, helping patients make informed decisions with confidence.
