Low testosterone and vitamin D increase osteoporosis risk in men

A research team from the Catholic University of Korea has identified that low levels of testosterone and vitamin D significantly increase the risk of osteoporosis in men, particularly affecting hip bone density.

Analyzing data from 557 men aged 60 and older at Seoul St. Mary's Hospital and St. Vincent's Hospital between January 2020 and December 2024, researchers found that testosterone deficiency increases the risk of hip bone density loss by approximately 1.9 times. Vitamin D deficiency alone increases the risk by about 1.6 times. The study noted a synergistic effect: in men with low testosterone, the impact of vitamin D levels on hip bone density was even more pronounced.

While bone density in the lumbar spine is influenced by BMI and testosterone, hip bone density is affected by age, BMI, testosterone, and vitamin D. The researchers emphasized that while bone loss is common in aging men, only about 7% of those diagnosed with testosterone deficiency undergo bone density testing. Experts recommend that middle-aged and elderly men monitor both hormone and vitamin D levels to prevent hip fractures, which can lead to severe complications and reduced quality of life.