Osteoporosis: Epidemiology, Pathogenesis, Evaluation and Treatment
Manoj Chadha, Ram Chaddha, Hema Divakar, Hemant Kalyan, Shobhit Seth, Poonam Shah
Abstract
Purpose: Osteoporosis is a global health disease. Increasing life span will add to the burden of osteoporosis, especially in postmenopausal women. The lifetime risk of osteoporotic fractures is 30% to 40%. Fractures pose an extensive burden on healthcare resources. Therefore, early diagnosis of osteoporosis is necessary. Methods: In this review, we provide a comprehensive approach to the current epidemiology, diagnosis aspects, treatments and fracture management in relation to the osteoporosis. Results: In assessing osteoporotic patients, good medical history with identification of clinical risk factors should be done. Along with basic blood investigations, bone mineral density, vertebral imaging, and bone turnover markers can aid the accurate diagnosis of bone loss. Modification of risk factors and dietary interventions are the first step in managing osteoporosis. Multiple options can be tailored to the individual needs in the treatment of osteoporosis. The frequency and duration for which the treatment is continued depend on the individual response to treatment. For fractures, surgical management is necessary whereas pharmacological interventions are needed to prevent further fractures. As osteoporosis often goes unrecognized until one or more fractures occur, it is important to understand the impact of osteoporosis. Conclusion: Osteoporosis remains a significant health problem globally that needs immediate attention to improve bone quality and prevent fractures associated with it optimally.