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. 2002 Feb;92(2):271-3.
doi: 10.2105/ajph.92.2.271.

Recognition of osteoporosis by primary care physicians

Stephen H Gehlbach  1 , Maureen Fournier, Carol Bigelow
Affiliations

Recognition of osteoporosis by primary care physicians

Stephen H Gehlbach et al. Am J Public Health. 2002 Feb.

Abstract

Objectives: This study explored the recognition and treatment of osteoporosis and vertebral fracture among older women by primary care physicians.

Methods: Data from the National Ambulatory Medical Care Survey from 1993 to 1997 were examined for evidence of diagnosis and treatment of osteoporosis or vertebral fracture during visits by White women 60 years and older to primary care physicians.

Results: Fewer than 2% of the women received diagnoses of osteoporosis or vertebral fracture, although expected prevalence is 20% to 30%. Appropriate drug treatment, including antiresorptive agents and calcium and vitamin D, was offered to only 36% of the diagnosed patients.

Conclusions: Few cases of osteoporosis or vertebral fracture in older women are being diagnosed and treated by primary care physicians.

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Comment in

  • Recognition of osteoporosis since 1997.
    Simon M. Simon M. Am J Public Health. 2002 Nov;92(11):1707. doi: 10.2105/ajph.92.11.1707. Am J Public Health. 2002. PMID: 12406786 Free PMC article. No abstract available.
  • Osteoporosis recognition: correcting Gehlbach et al.
    Probst JC, Moore CG, Baxley EG, Shinogle JA. Probst JC, et al. Am J Public Health. 2002 Dec;92(12):1885. doi: 10.2105/ajph.92.12.1885. Am J Public Health. 2002. PMID: 12453798 Free PMC article. No abstract available.

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