Disparities in osteoporosis care among postmenopausal women in the United States

Maturitas. 2022 Feb:156:25-29. doi: 10.1016/j.maturitas.2021.10.010. Epub 2021 Oct 24.

Abstract

Osteoporosis and fragility fractures result in significant morbidity and mortality and contribute to substantial healthcare costs. Despite being a treatable disease, osteoporosis remains both underdiagnosed and undertreated in the US general population, with significant disparities in care between non-White and White women. These disparities are evident from screening to post-fracture treatment. Non-White women are less likely to be screened for osteoporosis, to be prescribed pharmacotherapy, or to receive treatment post-fracture; furthermore, the mortality rate after fracture is higher in non-White women. Given existing diagnostic and treatment disparities, additional studies and interventions are needed to optimize the bone health of Asian, Black, Hispanic, and Native American women, and to reduce morbidity and mortality from osteoporosis and fragility fractures.

Keywords: African American; Asian; BIPOC; Black; Disparities; Hispanic; Latinx; Menopause; Native American; Osteoporosis; Post-menopausal; Screening; United States.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Black People
  • Female
  • Fractures, Bone*
  • Healthcare Disparities
  • Hispanic or Latino
  • Humans
  • Osteoporosis* / diagnosis
  • Osteoporosis* / therapy
  • Osteoporosis, Postmenopausal* / diagnosis
  • Osteoporosis, Postmenopausal* / therapy
  • Postmenopause
  • United States / epidemiology