Bone loss is often referred to as a "woman's disease" because it primarily impacts postmenopausal women, leading to weak bones and a greater risk of fractures.
However, men are also at risk for weakened bones and bone loss as they age. While the causes and timing of bone loss may differ between men and women, the impact on quality of life and fracture risk is just as severe for both.
So, what exactly are the differences in how bone health and bone loss play out in men versus women?
Differences in Bone Structure and Density
When we think about the human skeleton, it’s easy to see it as a basic framework holding the body together. However, it serves as far more than just structural support.
The skeleton protects vital organs, enables movement through muscle attachment, stores essential minerals, and even produces blood cells, which is important in overall health and functionality. (1)
But if you look a little closer, you will see that male and female skeletons aren't the same.
One of the most noticeable differences between male and female skeletons is found in the pelvis. (2)
The human pelvis supports both locomotion and reproduction, and its anatomy differs between men and women.
The female pelvis is wider and has a larger opening, adapted for childbirth. (3)
This provides the space needed for a baby to pass through during delivery, making it important for safe and natural births.
Apart from being wider, the female pelvis also features a more oval-shaped pelvic inlet (the upper opening of the pelvic cavity) and a broader subpubic angle (the angle between the two pubic bones), making it uniquely suited for childbirth.
In contrast, the male pelvis is narrower and shaped like a funnel, optimized for efficient walking and running. This supports stability and balance during movement, which was necessary for activities like hunting and gathering in early human evolution. (4)
The male pelvis also features a more prominent iliac crest (the curved upper edge of the hip bone) and a narrower, heart-shaped pelvic inlet, creating a sturdy framework for muscle attachment and movement.
In other words, the narrower birth canal in males is all about efficiency, built for stability and smooth movement rather than accommodating reproductive demands. In contrast, the female pelvis is developed to do it all—supporting both mobility and the remarkable ability to facilitate childbirth.
Beyond the pelvis, the femur (thigh bone) is also different between men and women.
Men generally have longer femurs with an average neck angle of approximately 125-130 degrees, while women’s femurs, at an average of 126-128 degrees, have a slightly wider angle to accommodate their broader pelvis, influencing gait and stability. (5)
Men also tend to have higher bone mineral density (BMD) in their femurs, making fractures less likely. Women, however, face greater bone density loss as they age, especially after menopause, which increases their risk of fractures.
As for the rib cage, women generally have narrower and shorter rib cages than men. This anatomical difference slightly reduces lung volume—typically 10-12% smaller than that of men of the same height and age—but it doesn’t affect their ability to breathe or overall respiratory function. (6)
The narrower shape also provides additional room within the pelvic cavity to accommodate reproductive organs.
In general, male skeletons tend to be larger and more robust than female skeletons.
Men typically have heavier bones with greater density and size thanks to the influence of testosterone, which promotes bone growth and strength. They also have higher bone mineral density (BMD) at critical sites like the hip and femur compared to women, even when accounting for body size.
This increased robustness means that men often have thicker bones in their arms, legs, and shoulders, which contributes to their overall skeletal integrity.
On the other hand, female bones are generally lighter and slenderer. They have wider hips and shorter rib cages, giving them a narrower waist than men.
This difference in shape is not merely aesthetic; it plays a functional role in accommodating reproductive organs and supporting childbirth.
Bone Loss for Men and Women
However, the differences between men and women go beyond bone structure—it’s also about how bone loss begins and progresses.
These bone density and structure variations contribute to differing fracture risks, with both genders experiencing unique challenges as they age.
Bone Loss in Women
For example, women are particularly susceptible to fragility fractures, which occur from low-energy trauma due to weakened bones. The most common types of fractures among women include:
Hip Fractures
Women suffer hip fractures approximately 2.9 times more often than men, especially after menopause when estrogen levels drop sharply. (7)
A study published in Maedica found that among elderly patients, 74.4% of those hospitalized for hip fractures were women, with an increase in intertrochanteric fractures as their ages advanced. (8)
This often leads to issues such as longer hospital stays, reduced independence, and a greater risk of serious health complications.
Similarly, according to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS), about 24% of women over 50 who sustain a hip fracture face serious complications within 12 months, some of which can have life-threatening consequences. (9)
Furthermore, only 25% of hip fracture patients make a full recovery. Many require nursing home care or assistive devices like canes or walkers to regain mobility. (10)
Wrist Fractures
The distal radius fracture, commonly referred to as a wrist fracture, is particularly common among women, especially those over the age of 50.
Wrist fractures account for approximately 16.4% of all fractures in this demographic, as reported by a study published in the Journal of Hand Surgery. (11)
These fractures typically occur as a result of falls, which are more frequent in adult menopausal women due to decreased bone density, balance issues, and environmental hazards. Such injuries can lead to significant functional decline.
In fact, a study in the Merivale Hand Clinic found that elderly females with distal radius fractures are 50% more likely to experience difficulties in performing essential daily tasks such as preparing meals, completing household chores, and navigating stairs. (12)
Moreover, the consequences of wrist fractures extend beyond immediate pain and disability. Women who experience a wrist fracture are also at an increased risk for subsequent fractures in other parts of the body.
A study published by the Journal of Bone and Mineral Research found that one in five women who had a broken wrist went on to suffer a non-wrist fracture within the next ten years. (13)
Specifically, these women faced a 50% higher risk of spine fractures, an 80% higher risk for upper arm fractures, and a 90% higher risk of lower arm non-wrist fractures.
Vertebral Fractures
Women are at particularly high risk for vertebral compression fractures, which often result from porous and weakened bones, especially during post-menopause.
A study published in Osteoporosis International reported that vertebral fractures are frequently underdiagnosed, with many women unaware they have suffered one until they experience pain or deformity.
In fact, about 20-25% of women over 50 have experienced one, which usually occurs with minimal trauma, such as bending or lifting, and often goes unnoticed because they may not always present with acute symptoms. (14)
Many vertebral fractures are also asymptomatic or only cause mild pain, leading to a high rate of misdiagnosis.
According to a study in BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders, as many as 66.8% of vertebral fractures are missed in radiology reports, leaving many cases undiagnosed and untreated in their early stages. (15)
As a result, women who sustain these injuries may experience chronic pain and changes in posture, such as kyphosis (a forward rounding of the back), which can lead to a stooped appearance. (16)
This condition doesn’t just alter physical appearance—it can also impact mobility and daily life.
Thus, people with vertebral fractures often struggle with activities like walking, climbing stairs, or completing household tasks, which can take a toll on their overall quality of life.
What’s more concerning is how one fracture can lead to another.
Women who experience a single vertebral fracture are five times more likely to have another within a year. (17)
The risk grows exponentially with each additional fracture—those with two or more fractures are seven times more likely to suffer another.
This "fracture cascade" shows how important it is to detect and treat fractures early.
That's why, if you want to understand your bone loss risks before it leads to falls and fractures, or even hospital stays, OsteoIQ™ Optimal Genomics can help you uncover your unique bone health risks, personalize your bone health plan, and take control of your bone strength for the future. (18)
Bone Loss in Men
While men generally experience fewer fragility fractures compared to women, they are more likely to suffer from fractures resulting from high-energy trauma or accidents. Common fracture types include:
Hip Fractures
Although men have fewer hip fractures than women, the fractures they experience are typically caused by more severe falls or accidents, often involving higher energy falls or accidents. High-energy falls or accidents, such as motor vehicle collisions or falls from heights, are common causes.
This is supported by a study published in the Journal of Orthopaedic Surgery and Research, which found that men hospitalized for hip fractures often face more severe trauma than women. (19)
Women typically sustain hip fractures from low-energy falls, like tripping or slipping on flat surfaces, while men are more likely to suffer fractures from high-impact events—think falls from ladders, sports injuries, or car accidents. (20)
While both men and women can fracture their hips at this age, the causes and health factors leading to the injury can be quite different.
As a result, men often face more serious complications after a hip fracture.
In fact, according to a study published in Osteoporosis International, men have a 1.74 times higher risk of mortality within the first year after the injury, likely due to a combination of pre-existing health conditions and the severe nature of the trauma. (21)
Pelvic Fractures
Although pelvic fractures aren’t as common, making up only about 3% of all adult fractures, they’re still a major concern—especially for men. (22)
With their active lifestyles, involvement in contact sports, and physically demanding jobs, they face a higher risk of these serious injuries.
A study published in the Journal of Orthopaedic Surgery and Research revealed that pelvic fractures are particularly common in men involved in high-energy incidents like motor vehicle accidents, falls from heights, or severe sports injuries. (23)
For example, men are more likely to sustain unstable pelvic fractures, which involve multiple breaks in the pelvic ring and are typically caused by collisions, crush injuries involving heavy machinery, or falls from considerable heights.
In fact, high-energy pelvic fractures make up about 7-20% of all major blunt trauma cases, which demand urgent medical attention, as unstable pelvic fractures can lead to life-threatening complications, including internal bleeding and damage to nearby organs. (24)
This is especially important, as the blood vessels near the pelvis are vulnerable, and without prompt intervention, these injuries can lead to hemorrhagic shock.
Upper Limb Fractures
Upper limb fractures are a major health concern for adult men, often resulting from high-energy activities, sports injuries, or accidents. (25)
These fractures commonly affect the humerus (upper arm bone) and clavicle (collarbone), leading to long-term mobility issues and impairing daily functions.
Studies show that upper limb fractures are some of the most common injuries men experience, with the types varying based on age and activity level. (26)
- For example, distal radius fractures—often caused by falls onto an outstretched hand, particularly during sports—account for around 16.2 fractures per 10,000 people annually. (27)
- Proximal humerus fractures, which typically occur from falls or direct trauma during contact sports, occur at a rate of about 6.0 per 10,000 annually. (28)
- Clavicle fractures are also common, especially in sports like football and cycling, with an incidence of 5.8 per 10,000 annually. (29)
The impact of these fractures goes beyond just the physical injury. Recovery can be lengthy, and these fractures can severely affect one’s quality of life, especially if they require surgery or rehabilitation.
The problem is that men who sustain these fractures also tend to have lower rates of follow-up care and treatment compared to women, which increases their risk for future fractures. (30)
For instance, only 9% of men receive appropriate follow-up care for distal radius fractures, compared to 48% of women.
This gap in treatment can lead to complications and increase the risk of future fractures, making timely care even more important.
Factors Behind Bone Loss and Fractures in Men and Women
So, what causes bone loss and makes fractures more likely in both men and women?
Sex Hormones
One of the most critical factors influencing bone loss is hormonal balance, which varies significantly between men and women. (31)
For women, the onset of menopause marks a dramatic shift in hormonal levels, particularly with a sharp decline in estrogen.
Estrogen helps support healthy bone density by inhibiting the activity of osteoclasts, the cells responsible for breaking down bone tissue. (32)
However, research from the Bone Health & Osteoporosis Foundation reveals that women can lose up to 20% of their bone mass within the first five to seven years after menopause due to this hormonal change, leading to an increased risk of fractures and bone loss during menopause. (33)
In contrast, men experience a more gradual decline in testosterone levels as they age.
Testosterone helps maintain strong bones, as it stimulates osteoblasts to form new bone and inhibits osteoclasts responsible for bone breakdown. By suppressing IL-6, a molecule that activates bone resorption, testosterone helps preserve bone density and overall stability. (34)
Although men typically maintain their bone density longer than women, testosterone deficiency—often due to conditions like hypogonadism—can lead to increased bone loss. (35)
In fact, a study in the International Journal of Molecular Sciences reported that about 20% of elderly men with low bone density have reduced testosterone levels, contributing to their condition. (36)
Bone Structure
Bone structure is a major factor in bone loss risk, and the differences between men and women can influence susceptibility. (37)
Generally, women have smaller and thinner bones compared to men, which increases their vulnerability to weakened bones and bone loss.
According to the International Osteoporosis Foundation, petite women, particularly those with a body mass index (BMI) of less than 19, are at a heightened risk for osteoporosis due to their lower peak bone density. (38)
For example, women weighing less than 127 pounds often have insufficient bone mass, making them more susceptible to fractures as they age. (39)
In contrast, men typically have larger and denser bones, providing them with greater resilience against age-related bone loss.
Genetics
Genetics plays a big role in your risk of developing weak and porous bones, and these risks can differ quite a bit between men and women. (40)
A family history of bone loss can greatly increase a woman's risk.
Research in Bone shows that women with a parent who suffered a hip fracture have a 127% higher chance of experiencing a hip fracture themselves and a 54% higher risk of other bone fractures. (41)
They are also four times more likely than men to develop weak and porous bones, particularly after menopause, when hormonal changes lead to accelerated bone loss. (42)
A study from Stanford University identified 899 regions in the human genome associated with low bone-mineral density, with individuals at high genetic risk being 17 times more likely to experience significant bone loss. (43)
Researchers found that while genetic factors are important for both men and women, bone loss tends to progress more quickly in women, largely due to their smaller bone size and the hormonal changes that occur with menopause.
Although bone loss is less common in men, it still poses a considerable risk. Genetic studies have identified specific genes linked to lower bone density and higher fracture risk in men.
For example, testosterone deficiency in older men can contribute to bone loss, similar to how estrogen deficiency affects women. However, men typically experience bone density loss later in life compared to women. (44), (45)
Recognizing these genetic differences is important to identifying and preventing bone issues before they become serious.
With genetic screening tools like OsteoIQ™ Optimal Genomics, we can identify those at higher risk for bone health issues, helping to take proactive steps to strengthen bones and reduce fracture risks for both men and women. (46)
Timing
Moreover, the timing of bone loss differs between genders. Women generally experience a decline in bone density earlier than men, often starting in their late 30s or early 40s, with an acceleration occurring after menopause. (47)
A study published in the Journal of Clinical Medicine and Research involving over 769 participants aged 60 and older found that women experienced an annual bone loss rate of approximately 0.96% at the femoral neck compared to 0.82% for men. (48)
This difference shows how hormonal changes can lead to earlier and more rapid declines in bone density for women.
As men age, they also face bone loss, but it tends to be more gradual.
Studies show that while both sexes lose bone density at similar rates after age 65, men generally start with a higher peak bone mass, which can provide some protection against bone loss and fractures later in life. (49), (50)
However, when fractures do occur in men, they can be more severe due to the larger size and density of male bones.
Despite the differences between genders, many risk factors for bone health challenges are common to both men and women:
- Age: Aging is a universal risk factor for both genders. As people reach their 30s and beyond, they begin losing bone density gradually. For both men and women, maintaining bone health becomes increasingly important as they age. (51)
- Lifestyle Choices: Poor lifestyle choices such as smoking and excessive alcohol consumption negatively impact bone health for both sexes. Smoking has been shown to interfere with calcium absorption and hormone levels vital for maintaining strong bones. Similarly, heavy drinking can lead to thinning bones and increased fracture risk. (52), (53)
- Dietary Deficiencies: A diet lacking essential nutrients like calcium and vitamin D can elevate the risk of developing decreased bone density for both men and women. (54)
- Physical Inactivity: Sedentary lifestyles are detrimental to bone health across genders. Weight-bearing exercises are crucial for stimulating bone formation; individuals who do not engage in regular physical activity are at greater risk for osteoporosis. (55)
So what can you do to support healthy bones as you age, regardless of your gender?
How to Support Healthy Bones
Fortunately, regardless of gender, there are proactive steps you can take to delay bone loss and reduce your risk of developing bone disease. By following a healthy lifestyle and making informed choices, you can pave the way for stronger bones.
1. Nourish Your Bones With a Healthy Diet
A well-balanced diet rich in calcium and vitamin D is important for maintaining bone density. Calcium is the building block of bone tissue, while vitamin D enhances calcium absorption in the body.
Aim for a daily intake of 1,200 mg of calcium for women over 50 and men over 70. Foods high in calcium include raw grass-fed cheese, sockeye salmon with bones, broccoli, cabbage, kefir/yogurt, and parmesan cheese. (56)
Vitamin D can be sourced from sunlight exposure (at least 10-30 minutes per day depending on skin type, location, and season) and foods like salmon, mackerel, and egg yolks.
2. Stay Active With Weight-Bearing Exercise
Regular physical activity is important for maintaining strong bones. Engaging in weight-bearing exercises, such as walking, jogging, dancing, or resistance training, helps stimulate bone formation and maintain bone density. (57)
The National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases (NIAMS) recommends at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity each week, combined with strength-training exercises on two or more days. (58)
Incorporating balance-enhancing exercises like tai chi or yoga can also help prevent falls—one of the leading causes of fractures in older adults. (59)
If you are new to exercising or have existing health conditions, it’s important to choose activities appropriate for your age and ability.
Reach out to the BoneCoach™ team to help you create a tailored plan that supports your bone-strengthening goals while minimizing the risk of fractures with these exercises.
3. Avoid Smoking and Limit Alcohol Consumption
Smoking interferes with the body’s ability to absorb calcium and disrupts hormone levels that are vital for bone health.
In fact, a study from Bone & Joint Research reveals that smokers have lower bone density than non-smokers and are at a higher risk for fractures. The good news? Quitting smoking can lead to improved bone health over time. (60)
Moreover, drinking excessive alcohol can weaken your bone density by reducing calcium absorption and disrupting vitamin D metabolism, both of which increase the risk of fractures. (61)
While the general recommendation is to limit alcohol intake to no more than two standard drinks per day for men and one for women, fully supporting your bone health—especially as you age or if you have a history of heavy drinking—requires taking it a step further.
To promote optimal bone health, it’s best to strictly limit or eliminate alcohol consumption altogether.
4. Take Annatrol™ Bone Support
Annatrol™ Bone Support by Healthy Bones Co. combines annatto tocotrienols and geranylgeraniol (GG), two powerful nutrients that support bone health and strength as you age.
It is formulated with 300 mg of premium pure annatto tocotrienols, a potent form of vitamin E, that can help neutralize free radicals and shield cells from oxidative damage. (62)
By combating oxidative stress—often linked to aging—tocotrienols protect bone tissue, supporting stronger, healthier bones as you age.
This is backed by research published in BMC Complementary Medicine and Therapies.
In a 12-week study involving 87 postmenopausal women, it was found that those who received DeltaGold® annatto tocotrienol at dosages of 300 and 600 mg daily experienced decreased bone resorption and improved bone formation. (63)
The participants also showed a nearly 100% increase in the BALP/NTX ratio, a measure of bone remodeling, after 12 weeks, along with a reduction of 13-24% in the RANKL/OPG ratio, indicating decreased bone resorption compared to significant increases in the placebo group.
This suggests that these women were able to strengthen their bone health, even during postmenopause when their estrogen levels were at an all-time low, thanks to tocotrienol.
Annatrol™ Bone Support also contains 300 mg of geranylgeraniol (GG), a vital building block that supports protein synthesis, muscle health, hormone regulation, and the production of CoQ10 and MK-4 in the body.
MK-4, in particular, supports bone health by activating osteocalcin, a protein essential for binding calcium to the bone matrix. This process enhances calcium utilization and strengthens bone density. (64)
When you supplement with geranylgeraniol (GG), it enhances the bioavailability of MK-4. This works by creating geranylgeranyl pyrophosphate (GGPP), which is crucial for activating proteins that support bone health.
By increasing MK-4’s effectiveness, this combination helps osteocalcin do its job even better, binding more calcium to your bones and making them even stronger. (65)
GG and MK-4 also work together to inhibit osteoclast formation through different pathways.
MK-4 inhibits the production of prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) by blocking cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), while GG downregulates RANKL (receptor activator of nuclear factor kappa B ligand), a key regulator of osteoclast differentiation. (66), (67)
This dual action promotes bone formation while reducing bone resorption, leading to stronger bones and lower fracture risk.
Therefore, by taking Annatrol™ Bone Support, you can protect your bones from age-related physical decline, support bone strength, and reduce muscle fatigue, helping you maintain better overall mobility and vitality as you age.
Beyond the bone health benefits, just two pea-sized capsules of Annatrol™ Bone Support can also…
- Help maintain skin and eye health*
- Promote cardiovascular and circulatory health*
- Promote regulation of healthy metabolic functions*
- Support insulin sensitivity and normal glycemic control*
- Promote a healthy inflammatory response*
- Support antioxidant status*
- Maintain healthy liver function*
- Help mitochondrial function and cellular energy generation*
- Support hormone synthesis*
- Support proper cell membrane construction*
- Provide support for healthy lipid profile and total cholesterol levels*
Support healthy and strong bones regardless of your gender.
Try Annatrol™ Bone Support today.
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