We Advance | Shedding Light on Osteoporosis in Men

A new research uncovered risks, and empowers men to take charge of their bone health

Osteoporosis, a condition where bones become weak and prone to fractures, has traditionally been viewed as a women’s health condition due to hormonal changes during menopause. However, local research led by SingHealth Polyclinics (SHP) revealed that older men, especially those living with chronic diseases, face significant and often overlooked risks for osteoporosis.  

An elderly man experiencing a fall - a common scenario that can lead to
fractures in those with undiagnosed osteoporosis (Photo: Canva @Sorapop Udomsri)

The research studied the records of more than 17,600 men aged 65 and above with diabetes, hypertension, or hyperlipidaemia (DHL), who visited the polyclinics between 2017 and 2018. It was reported that while osteoporosis affected 2.3 per cent of this group, only one in four of those diagnosed received some form of treatment.

The findings showed that osteoporosis frequently remains undetected until patients experience bone fractures. Even among diagnosed patients, some waited up to a year before starting treatment, thus missing crucial opportunities to strengthen bones and prevent potentially debilitating fractures.

“Our findings show that older men with chronic diseases face a double jeopardy – their underlying conditions increase fracture risk, and bone health evaluation is routinely neglected during their medical care,” said Clinical Associate Professor Tan Ngiap Chuan, Director of Research and the Primary Care Research Institute, SHP.

The consequences can be severe. Men who experience osteoporotic fractures tend to fare worse than women, with higher disability or even mortality rates.

Advancing Early Detection Through Innovation

The research also revealed that many men do not perceive themselves to be at risk and therefore do not undergo screening unless prompted by their doctors. Recognising this gap, researchers in SHP and Sengkang General Hospital are testing a self-assessment tool - Osteoporosis Self-Assessment Tool for Asians (OSTA) to aid men in self-testing their risk level, and to better understand when they should seek medical help for osteoporosis risk.

In addition, SHP is currently testing an Artificial Intelligence tool – a virtual health assistant that can reply to questions and provide information on bone health to raise awareness of osteoporosis among older women. SHP also intends to adapt the tool for older men, once the testing is completed.

These tools aim to support earlier detection, empowering individuals to act before fractures occur.

Managing the Risk of Developing Osteoporosis

Maintaining a healthy diet and active lifestyle remain the key to preserving
bone strength as people age (Photo: Canva @imtmphoto from Getty Images)

The risk of developing osteoporosis can be slowed down through simple lifestyle changes. These include quitting smoking, limiting alcohol intake, consuming adequate calcium and vitamin D, engaging in regular weight-bearing exercises such as walking, and effectively managing chronic health conditions.

With an ageing population, particularly in Singapore, where the risk of fractures is high, early detection is vital for prevention and treatment to help seniors maintain their independence and quality of life. Schedule a visit at any SingHealth Polyclinic to stay on top of your overall health and take early steps to maintain strong bones. Make your appointment here.

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