Health Tips for August 10

Health Tip: Osteoporosis Can Affect Men, Too

Although osteoporosis is more common in postmenopausal women, men are also vulnerable to thinning bones as they age.

The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons says risk factors for osteoporosis in men include:

• Drinking excessive amounts of alcohol or using tobacco.
• Not exercising regularly.
• Having a low body-mass index.
• Getting insufficient vitamin D and calcium.
• Taking certain medications, including anticonvulsants, oral glucocorticoids or heparin.
• Getting older.
• Having a family history of fractures related to fragile bones.
• Certain health conditions, including asthma, thyroid disorders or rheumatoid arthritis.
• Having low levels of certain hormones, including testosterone or estrogen.

Health Tip: Some Prone to Losing Bone Mass

Some people are at risk for losing bone mass, but haven't progressed to full-blown osteoporosis. In other words, their bodies break down old bone faster than they can produce new bone. Doctors call this condition osteopenia.

The American Academy of Family Physicians says risk factors for osteopenia include:

• Getting older.
• Starting menopause before age 45.
• Having surgery to remove the ovaries before menopause.
• Getting insufficient physical activity.
• Drinking too much alcohol, smoking or other use of tobacco.
• Having an eating disorder.
• Having an overactive thyroid.