And men are much more likely than women to die after a hip fracture. Men can experience significant bone loss as they age, and this can lead to osteoporosis. Also, as men age, their bodies may not be able to absorb calcium well. After age 51, all adults need at least 1200 milligrams of calcium daily. The National Osteoporosis Foundation supports even higher intake of 1500 milligrams of calcium per day for adults 65 and older.
Osteoporosis is less common in men than in women for several reasons.
But despite these differences, men can be at high risk for this disease. In addition, certain disorders or conditions such as thyroid, hormone, or liver problems, or steroid therapy can cause low bone density. Young men who have these disorders can develop the disease. Treatments such as calcitonin and hormone therapy are under investigation for men with osteoporosis. Until more is known about the disease and how it can be treated in men, preventing bone loss and fractures is of primary importance.