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Date of Award

Spring 2022

Degree Name

Master of Medical Science (Physician Assistant)

Department

Physician Assistant; College of Health Sciences

First Advisor

Kevin Basile, MD, PT

Abstract

Osteoporosis is a common skeletal condition caused by loss of bone mineral density. The progressive thinning and loss of bone architecture places patients at increased risk of fractures over time. Current guidelines suggest screening for osteoporosis at 65 years of age or earlier if risk factors are present. Without early recognition of risk factors, however, many individuals often go undiagnosed for years until a potentially life-threatening fracture occurs. The incidence of osteoporotic fractures is only expected to rise with the growth of the aging population. Thus, early recognition of risk factors is critical for initiating timely care. This article is intended to educate clinicians on often overlooked risk factors associated with osteoporosis and the appropriate screening and treatment tools to prevent future fractures.

Comments

Learning Objectives

After reading this article, readers should:

  • Understand the importance of early identification of osteoporosis

  • Recognize common risk factors of osteoporosis

  • Understand the diagnostic workup of osteoporosis

  • Become familiar with pharmaceutical and non-pharmaceutical options in preventing and managing osteoporosis

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Additional Files

Poster.pdf (1353 kB)
CME Article.pdf (134 kB)

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Essentials of Osteoporosis: Early Prevention, Screening, and Management of this Silent Disease

Osteoporosis is a common skeletal condition caused by loss of bone mineral density. The progressive thinning and loss of bone architecture places patients at increased risk of fractures over time. Current guidelines suggest screening for osteoporosis at 65 years of age or earlier if risk factors are present. Without early recognition of risk factors, however, many individuals often go undiagnosed for years until a potentially life-threatening fracture occurs. The incidence of osteoporotic fractures is only expected to rise with the growth of the aging population. Thus, early recognition of risk factors is critical for initiating timely care. This article is intended to educate clinicians on often overlooked risk factors associated with osteoporosis and the appropriate screening and treatment tools to prevent future fractures.