Gaps in Osteoporosis Management in a Predominantly Hispanic Population

Area of Science:

• Endocrinology
• Geriatrics
• Public Health

Background:

• Osteoporosis is a prevalent condition with established management guidelines, yet it frequently goes undiagnosed and untreated.
• Underdiagnosis and undertreatment contribute to significant morbidity and healthcare costs.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify osteoporosis and osteopenia risk factors in a specific community.
• To evaluate the utilization of the Fracture Risk Assessment Tool (FRAX).
• To assess the treatment gap in osteoporotic and osteopenic women.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective chart review of 387 women aged 50+ diagnosed with osteopenia or osteoporosis.
• Data collected included demographics, medical history (fractures, smoking, steroid use, BMI, comorbidities), and quality of care indicators (FRAX documentation, medication use, DXA scan frequency).
• Analysis focused on risk factors, FRAX score documentation, medication prescription rates, and supplement use.

Main Results:

• A majority of the 387 women (58.1%) had osteoporosis, and 83% were Hispanic or Latina.
• Previous fracture was the most common risk factor (46%).
• Only 37.5% had a documented FRAX score, and nearly one-third of patients with osteoporosis or high-risk osteopenia did not receive pharmacological therapy. Vitamin D and calcium supplementation was low (40.6%).

Conclusions:

• Significant care gaps exist in osteoporosis and osteopenia assessment and management within the studied Hispanic community.
• Underutilization of the FRAX tool and inadequate pharmacological treatment highlight areas for clinical intervention.
• Improving screening, risk assessment, and treatment adherence is crucial for reducing fracture risk.