Osteoporosis : bare bone facts

Abstract

Osteoporosis has become increasingly recognised as a major health care problem as it is the cause of more than 2.3 million fractures annually in Europe and USA alone. These fractures place an enormous medical and personal toll on the individual and a major economic burden on the nation. Osteoporosis can be prevented, and once diagnosed, can be treated. The aim of prevention and treatment of osteoporosis is to prevent the occurrence of future fractures. Lifestyle changes should be encouraged in high risk patients. Pharmacological interventions include the bisphosphonates, selective oestrogen receptor modulators, hormone replacement therapy (HRT), calcitonin, teriparatide, calcium and vitamin D supplements, and calcitriol.