Fracture danger likely to increase for older men
Osteoporosis and the danger of fractures is now expected to increase rapidly for Australian men, as they continue to live longer and face the possibility of more frequent personal accidents.
At present, the chances of a man getting an osteoporosis related fracture is one in five, compared to one in three for Australian women.
But, according to the Australian and New Zealand Bone and Mineral Society, the rates of fracture for men are likely to catch up with the ratio for women as they live longer.
The Society believes the number of hip fractures in elderly Australian men is expected to double by 2026 and quadruple by 2051.
And with men, the consequences are more severe, as they are more likely to suffer from other serious conditions such as heart disease.
Men defined as being most at risk are those who are over 70, have lost weight or have low body weight, and who are physically inactive.
The Society recommends weight bearing exercise, the taking of dairy foods such as milk, cheese, yoghurt and green vegetables; a limit on alcohol, no smoking, and regular exposure to sunshine for at least ten minutes a day.
