[The importance of taking care of osteoporosis]

Abstract

Consequences in terms of mortality and morbidity of osteoporotic fractures are serious and recent data show that mortality of osteoporosis is often a witness of poor health. Prevalent fracture is one of the most important risk factors for incident fracture. The risk of subsequent fractures is highest immediately after initial fractures. It is essential to treat postmenopausal osteoporotic women who had experienced a fragility fracture. Efforts to raise awareness of osteoporosis among the general public and medical profession are essential because only a minority of women is taken care and treated after a typical osteoporotic fracture. We have effective treatments, varied and adapted to all situations encountered in clinical practice for the management of osteoporosis. All available treatments showed an effect on vertebral fractures and some demonstrated an effect on nonvertebral fractures or hip fractures. The lack of adherence is perfectly demonstrated in osteoporosis. As for all patients affected by a chronic disease, patient education should become part of the global care of patients with osteoporosis.