Fast Facts: Postmenopausal Osteoporosis

Book excerpt: Fractures resulting from osteoporosis are increasingly common in postmenopausal women, resulting in substantial bone-associated morbidities, and increased mortality and healthcare costs. Despite well-established treatment guidelines, there is an urgent need to improve the recognition of women at high risk for fracture and their treatment. 'Fast Facts: Postmenopausal Osteoporosis' provides an overview of current clinical guidelines and addresses the reasons cited for suboptimal fracture prevention. Finally, but importantly, best practice regarding patient support is described. This concise educational resource is ideal for any primary care practitioner involved in the diagnosis and treatment of patients with postmenopausal osteoporosis. Table of Contents: • Age-related changes affecting bone • Epidemiology • Screening and estimating risk • Diagnosis and assessment • Pharmacological management • Non-pharmacological management • Patient support