Abstract
A number of provider and patient barriers contribute to the underrecognition and undertreatment of osteoporosis. This article guides primary care providers through the assessment of at-risk patients and reviews the criteria for a diagnosis of osteoporosis. Preventive approaches and clinical decision-making surrounding treatment initiation are also reviewed. Finally, strategies to improve patient compliance and persistence with therapy are discussed. Available guidelines and recommendations are emphasized throughout.
MeSH terms
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Bone Density Conservation Agents / therapeutic use
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Diphosphonates / therapeutic use
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Fractures, Bone / etiology
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Fractures, Bone / prevention & control
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Humans
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Mass Screening / methods*
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Mass Screening / standards
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Medication Adherence
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Osteoporosis / complications
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Osteoporosis / diagnosis
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Osteoporosis / prevention & control*
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Practice Guidelines as Topic
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Primary Health Care / methods
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Primary Health Care / standards
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Raloxifene Hydrochloride / therapeutic use
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Risk Assessment
Substances
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Bone Density Conservation Agents
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Diphosphonates
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Raloxifene Hydrochloride