Osteoporosis Screening, Prevention, and Management

Osteoporosis is characterized by low bone mineral density (BMD) and abnormal bone architecture. Common fracture sites are vertebrae, proximal femur, and distal forearm. Osteoporosis is underdiagnosed and undertreated. All women 65 and older should be screened. Consider screening younger postmenopausal women with elevated risk. Osteoporosis is diagnosed based on T score or a fragility fracture. Women with osteoporosis or who have a 10-year risk of any major fracture of 20% or hip fracture of 3% should be evaluated for causes of low bone density and treated with an osteoporosis-specific medication, lifestyle interventions, and calcium and vitamin D intake.