An article in Monday's Washington Post reported new findings that indicate that testosterone injections for older men with low levels of the hormone may help them prevent osteoporosis. The study, which was scheduled to be discussed at the American Physiological Society's annual meeting in San Diego, had a small sample size of just 13 men, and the results appear to be preliminary. While more work is needed to fully understand the effects of testosterone on male bone mass, it is good to see this significant study being highlighted by a major publication (at http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/04/07/AR2008040701040.html).
In addition, last week's issue of the New England Journal of Medicine featured a case study of a man with a family history of osteoporosis concerned about his own risk of the disease. (Subscription is required for the full piece, but the outline and introduction is available at http://content.nejm.org/cgi/content/short/358/14/1474?query=TOC).
These high profile pieces are great examples of serious attention finally being paid to those who are at risk of fracture - and who also happen to be male. It's an important reminder that while women have the highest incidence of the condition, it is also essential for researchers to consider both genders in their investigation of osteoporosis prevention, diagnosis and treatment options.
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