Osteoporosis--Part I: Risk factors and screening

Osteoporosis is a significant problem in women and men. However, before reviewing potential treatments, it is imperative that health professionals first become introduced to the risk factors for osteoporosis and fractures, and the various screening methods that are used in clinical practice. For example, advancing age, hormonal status, diet, and lifestyle are just a few of the potential risk factors. Heel ultrasound (HUS), dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry (DEXA), and quantitative computerized tomography (QCT) are the most popular and effective methods used for osteoporosis screening. All of these tests contain an inherent number of advantages and limitations. This review serves as a simplistic but important introduction to a condition that is increasing in incidence in a variety of health care fields.