Osteoporosis: a rapid review of risk factors and screening methods

Abstract

Osteoporosis is a significant problem in women and it is beginning to become a recognized etiology of morbidity and mortality in men. However, before reviewing any potential therapies, it is imperative that clinicians first gain adequate knowledge on the risk factors for osteoporosis and fractures, and the various screening methods that are utilized in clinical practice. For example, advancing age, hormonal status, lifestyle, and overall diet are just a few of the potential risk factors. The majority of the risk factors in men seem to parallel those that have already been well known in women. Heel ultrasound (HUS), dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA), and quantitative computerized tomography (QCT) are the most popular and effective methods utilized for osteoporosis screening. All of these imaging tests contain an inherent number of advantages and limitations. This brief review serves as a simplistic but important primer to a condition that is increasing in prevalence in a diverse area of medical fields.