Secondary Causes of Osteoporosis in Men

Important underlying causes of osteoporotic fracture in men include glucocorticoid therapy, low body weight, and reduced physical activity. Tobacco and alcohol use have been consistently identified as risk factors for vertebral fracture but there is less evidence that they contribute to hip fracture. Clinically overt hypogonadism is a strong risk factor for osteoporosis in men; however, the role of more subtle subclinical changes, as defined by biochemical criteria, remains to be established. The high comorbidity associated with osteoporosis, particularly in elderly men, contributes to fracture risk both through effects on bone mass and risk of falling. The management of osteoporosis in men includes diagnosis of and, where possible, correction of underlying contributory causes. Evidence from recent randomized controlled trials indicates that bisphosphonates are effective in the prevention of glucocorticoid-induced osteoporosis in men but the optimal criteria for selection of individuals for treatment requires further study.