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- $Unique_ID{BRK00402}
- $Pretitle{}
- $Title{Can Men Get Osteoporosis?}
- $Subject{osteoporosis men causes Musculoskeletal bones aging older elderly
- elder geriatric age porous bone calcium growth years exercise absorbed rebuilt
- modeling cells osteoclasts osteoblasts caffeine smoke smoking hormone therapy}
- $Volume{M-17}
- $Log{
- Contributing Factors to Osteoporosis*0005701.scf
- Osteoporosis*0005702.scf}
-
- Copyright (c) 1991-92,1993 Tribune Media Services, Inc.
-
-
- Can Men Get Osteoporosis?
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-
- QUESTION: All the ads on television for calcium and osteoporosis seems to
- indicate that this is a women's disease. Is that true or can men get it as
- well? If a man can get it, how do you treat it?
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- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
-
- ANSWER: The fact is that anyone can develop osteoporosis, usually at an
- advanced age. It certainly is more common in women, attacks whites more than
- blacks, and is rarely seen in young people. Although there are many factors
- in the cause of osteoporosis (literally: porous bone), one of the elements is
- the failure to develop bone with sufficient mass during our younger days. A
- plentiful supply of calcium during growth years is certainly required, but
- exercise may play an equally important role. As the muscles pull upon the
- bone, as in active sports, the bones develop the necessary strength to support
- these actions, strength that results from increased mass. Bone is a
- constantly being absorbed and rebuilt in a process called modeling, as cells
- called osteoclasts break down bone, while other cells, osteoblasts, build it
- back up again. For as long as these actions remain balanced, the bones remain
- pretty much the same. As age approaches, the ratio changes and more bone is
- absorbed than built and osteoporosis occurs. Some life style habits may also
- interfere with bone remodeling, foods and beverages containing caffeine and
- smoking to name just two. While women who are affected by this disease may
- be placed on hormone therapy, we rely on calcium in diet, and calcium
- supplements for the men along with a regular exercise program to help keep the
- bones solid. Younger readers take heed, here is another good reason, if you
- really need it, to maintain your exercise program now. Your bones will thank
- you in later years.
-
- ----------------
-
- The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace
- the counsel and advice of your personal physician. Promptly consulting your
- doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical
- problem.
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-