Screening and Treatment of Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis is a disease affecting millions of Americans, especially elderly women, and resulting in significant health care cost, as well as morbidity and mortality. Screening tests are available but patients and primary care physicians alike should consider their utility in the context of individualized patient care. When osteoporosis is diagnosed, all of the available treatments should be considered when choosing the best option for each patient. A systematic review of the evidence for osteoporosis screening and treatment was conducted to assist primary care physicians with caring for patients at risk for osteoporosis.