Impact Research Journal · Oct 11, 2026
Osteoporosis in men, an underdiagnosed condition: risk factors, diagnosis, and management of fragility fractures
By Ávila JDB, Toapanta KES, Santana C et al.
OBJECTIVE: To synthesize updated evidence on the risk factors, pathophysiology, diagnosis, and medical and surgical management of osteoporosis and fragility fractures in adult men. METHODS: A systematic search of the scientific literature was conducted in the PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science databases, prioritizing publications from the period 2019–2025. RESULTS: Male osteoporosis represented a major public health problem because of its high frequency of underdiagnosis and undertreatment. Men over 50 years of age were found to have a significant risk of osteoporotic fractures, with hip fractures being particularly relevant. Furthermore, a considerable proportion of cases were associated with secondary causes, making it necessary to consider clinical factors and comorbidities in the comprehensive assessment. Diagnosis was based primarily on the assessment of risk factors, fracture risk estimation, and bone densitometry. Regarding treatment, oral bisphosphonates constituted a first-line option, while anabolic agents were considered in patients at high fracture risk. CONCLUSIONS: Timely identification of men at risk of osteoporosis and fragility fractures, using clinical assessment tools and bone densitometry, was fundamental to establishing appropriate preventive and therapeutic interventions. The implementation of targeted screening strategies and coordinated fracture care services enabled the strengthening of diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up of this disease in the male population.