Menopausal osteoporosis: screening, prevention and treatment

Eu Leong Yong; LOGAN SUSAN JANE SINCLAIR

Publication

Menopausal osteoporosis: screening, prevention and treatment

Eu Leong Yong;
LOGAN SUSAN JANE SINCLAIR

Abstract

Screening for osteoporosis in women can be based on age and weight, using the Osteoporosis Screening Tool for Asians and assessment for other risk factors such as early menopause, Chinese ethnicity and other secondary factors. Based on the resulting risk profile, women can be triaged to dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) scanning for definite diagnosis of osteoporosis. Treatment should be considered in women with previous fragility fractures, DEXA-diagnosed osteoporosis and high risk of fracture. Exercise improves muscle function, can help prevent falls and has moderate effects on improvements in bone mass. Women should ensure adequate calcium intake and vitamin D. Menopausal hormone therapy (MHT) effectively prevents osteoporosis and fractures, and should be encouraged in those aged < 50 years. For women aged < 60 years, MHT or tibolone can be considered, especially if they have vasomotor or genitourinary symptoms. Risedronate or bisphosphonates may then be reserved for those aged over 60 years.

Keywords

Science & Technology, Life Sciences & Biomedicine, Medicine, General & Internal, General & Internal Medicine, menopause, osteoporosis, prevention, screening, treatment, BONE-MINERAL DENSITY, HORMONE REPLACEMENT THERAPY, POSTMENOPAUSAL WOMEN, FACILITATE SELECTION, POSITION STATEMENT, ETHNIC-DIFFERENCES, COST-EFFECTIVENESS, INCREASED RISK, FRACTURES, VALIDATION