Bone Health and Osteoporosis Prevention in Menopause

Osteoporosis is a systemic skeletal disorder characterized by reduced bone strength and increased fracture risk, posing a major public health challenge. Hip and vertebral fractures, which predominantly affect older postmenopausal women, lead to significant disability and reduced quality of life. Accelerated bone loss begins during the menopausal transition, and early fractures (eg, wrist) can signal underlying skeletal fragility. Although effective screening tools and evidence-based lifestyle and pharmacologic interventions can prevent fractures, osteoporosis remains underdiagnosed and undertreated. Women's health clinicians play a critical role in integrating bone health assessment, prevention, and management into routine care for perimenopausal and postmenopausal women.