In men, hypogonadism is a recognized risk factor for osteoporosis.

In men, hypogonadism is a recognized risk factor for osteoporosis.

• A. Hypogonadism is a common cause of osteoporosis in men
• B. Hypogonadism does not affect bone density
• C. Osteoporosis in men is only due to age
• D. Hypogonadism is protective against osteoporosis

Answer: (A)

Low testosterone disrupts bone remodeling. When men have hypogonadism, reduced androgen (and estrogen via aromatization) signaling leads to increased bone resorption and decreased bone formation, resulting in lower bone mineral density and a higher risk of osteoporosis. That makes hypogonadism a recognized and meaningful risk factor in men, reflecting the important role of sex steroids in maintaining skeletal health. The ideas that hypogonadism has no effect on bone, or that osteoporosis is driven only by age, or that hypogonadism would protect bone, do not fit with how bone metabolism responds to hormonal deficiencies.

Low testosterone disrupts bone remodeling. When men have hypogonadism, reduced androgen (and estrogen via aromatization) signaling leads to increased bone resorption and decreased bone formation, resulting in lower bone mineral density and a higher risk of osteoporosis. That makes hypogonadism a recognized and meaningful risk factor in men, reflecting the important role of sex steroids in maintaining skeletal health. The ideas that hypogonadism has no effect on bone, or that osteoporosis is driven only by age, or that hypogonadism would protect bone, do not fit with how bone metabolism responds to hormonal deficiencies.