Statistics on Men's Bone Health
We read a recent study on men's bone health and were so alarmed at the statistics; we wanted to provide information, related to osteoporosis and loss of bone mass density, to help build awareness and assist in reversing that trend. Women's bone mass density is referenced as well as the risk with a loss in bone density for both men and women as they age.
For those who may not know, there are 206 bones in the typical human body [1].
Each bone has an important function in supporting the body and providing structure. They also protect the body’s organs and are a center for the production of blood cells while regulating calcium levels. Bones also interact with the muscle of the body to help allow for movement. The vitality of one's bones becomes critical over time to ensure this functionality is maintained throughout one’s lifetime. Maintaining bone health facilitates long-term health and independence as people age.
The results of a recent scientific study might suggest that bone health is not given the significance that it should. In light of these statistics, it is important to understand the current trends in the health of bones and look at key preventative measures to help change the direction that tending to bone health is going. To begin, let's look at the medical definition of osteoporosis. Osteoporosis means "porous bone. This disease is characterized by too little bone formation, excessive bone loss, or a combination of both, leading to bone fragility and an increased risk of fractures of the hip, spine, and wrist.” [2]
Now let’s look at some of the International Osteoporosis Foundation’s bone health statistics reported in recent studies done around the world.
Reduced Bone Health Causes 8.9 Million Fractures per Year
This number of breakages in bone is staggering. Over 8.9 million fractures take place solely due to inefficient bone health [2]. This stat is troubling because these injuries could likely be avoided with appropriate care. Men who are not careful end up putting themselves in weaker positions and therefore increase the chances of getting injured. Also, these numbers are expected to rise as time goes on, which makes it even more problematic.
310% Increase Expected In 2050
It does not stop there. The numbers are going to get worse according to these studies. Men are anticipated to see a 310% increase of hip fractures they face over time. This is going to occur by 2050 based on how things are moving along [3].
For men at risk, it is recommended to seek assistance if symptoms develop in association with hip soreness, back pain, and other related troubles. Men are prone to symptoms like these and should be looking at immediate assistance instead of letting it get worse. Doing so will save the trouble that will take place in the long-term especially if a fracture does occur.
Higher Rate of Mortality in Men from Fractures
A study done on the topic indicated women might have more fractures caused by reduced bone health, but men are the ones who can lose their life because of it [3]. As bone mass decreases, the stress added to the bones will worsen, and this is going to cause aggressive fractures to take place. Aggressive fractures are when the higher rate of mortality in men starts to showcase itself.
The numbers are rising in this regard as well, and that is troubling for those men who are not taking care of themselves in a manner that will help maintain bone integrity.
Correlation between Physical Health and Bone Health
Various studies have shown a connection between physical health and bone health. The physical health and fitness can have a profound impact on one's bone health and the extent to which it worsens [3]. This correlation is important to note because those who are already seeing pain develop in their bones should be thinking about their physical health being that the pain can be an indicator of a problem.
An increase in body fat percentage does not help the bones as more weight is being carried on a regular basis. This additional stress places more weight on the weakened bones that are unable to support the weight.
Preventative Measures
What can men do when it comes to preventative measures? The first tip was mentioned above. The goal should be to improve your physical health and fitness.
To better explain, consider the concept of building a block wall. Rebar is used throughout the span of the wall to help support the entire structure. The taller the wall, the more rebar is needed. The addition of more concrete block to the wall without the supporting rebar makes the wall more susceptible to giving out.
This theory is the same for the body. Bones are the support structure. Weakened bones put the bones required to support a heavier weight puts the body at risk for breaking down. The reduced pressure is going to ensure the bones can better manage the load being placed upon them.
Exercise is an excellent solution for helping improve bone mass density, (BMD), and reduce the risks associated with its weakening, including fractures, in particular for men and women and they age. Various forms of movement such as Pilates and Tai Chi are beneficial in this effort. However, exercise alone is not the only recourse in minimizing the loss of bone density. Increasing sporting activity, household chores, and reducing the number of hours spent sitting are all contributors in the effort to improve bone health and counter the trends of low-density bone mass. Incorporating these changes as part of a lifestyle are an effective long-term solution.
Increasing vitamin D intake is vital as well. This is the number one nutrient that is responsible for bone health, and it is essential to focus on including this in your diet as soon as possible [4]. Not including vitamin D in a person’s nutrition plan can limit the potential success of the preventative measures taken to improve one’s bone health.
It is a good idea to look at vitamin D as a solution that is going to have a profound impact now and in the future. The best way to get vitamin D into your life would be through sunlight. Being outside is a great way to remain healthy. However, caution to keep sun exposure limited is important due to other hazards that long-term exposure can bring. In addition to sunlight, various foods and supplements that can provide the positive impact for those who are looking to stay healthy.
Increasing calcium intake is another positive influence in the prevention of a loss of BMD. It is a sound preventative measure that should ideally begin at a young age for both genders [4]. Options for Calcium intake varies as it can be taken in through food, drink, and supplements. It does not always have to come through milk. Salmon, for example, has a healthy dose of calcium. However, it is recommended not to overdo the consumption of protein. This can have the opposite effect as the protein-heavy diet starts to tap into the body's calcium resources over time. Balancing what is being consumed is a must.
These stats should help to provide a better indication of what the trend is for men’s bone health. The preventative measures reported can be taken to reduce the loss of bone density and the risks, such as fractures, associated with it. Men around the world should consider their health and activities. Bone health should not be taken lightly as it can worsen over time while the risks associated with a loss of bone mass increase.
References:
1) http://www.cs.rpi.edu/~kleine/anatomy/bones.html
2) http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmedhealth/PMHT0024680/
3) https://www.iofbonehealth.org/facts-statistics
4) https://www.nof.org/patients/treatment/calciumvitamin-d/
Photo courtesy of http://share.iofbonehealth.org/WOD/2014/thematic-report/WOD14-Report.pdf