Kevin Macadaeg, MD

When you hear about osteoporosis, generally you think of it as a of older women. Yes, osteoporosis is more common in females, than males. But according to the National Osteoporosis Foundation, it is estimated that approximately two million males in the U.S. have osteoporosis. It is also predicted that about 12 million men are at risk for developing osteoporosis.

For men, here are some of the risk factors as identified by the National Osteoporosis Foundation:

Prolonged use of certain medications. For example, steroids to treat asthma or arthritis, anticonvulsants, aluminum-containing antacids and certain cancer treatments.
Chronic diseases that affect hormone levels such as diseases that affect the kidneys, lungs, stomach or intestines.
Undiagnosed low levels of testosterone.

Other risk factors for men, that are also risk factors for women include: lifestyle, age, heredity and race.