Fighting the Epidemic: Bone Health and Osteoporosis

Abstract

Osteoporosis is an increasing public health problem that impacts quality of life. Fractures are a common consequence of poor bone health, resulting in enormous health care, personal, and socioeconomic burden. Bone health can be managed, and osteoporosis can be prevented and diagnosed before a fracture or subsequent fracture. Nurses should consider bone health assessment and counseling as part of their standard for all patients. The evidence-based information presented regarding prevention, screening, diagnosis, and treatment is intended to fight the osteoporosis epidemic, resulting in a reduction of the treatment gap and reduced fracture risk among those to whom nurses provide care.

Keywords: Bone health; Bone mineral density; Fracture risk; Osteoporosis; Osteoporosis management; Osteoporosis prevention; Osteoporosis treatment.