Evaluation of osteoporosis.

Osteoporosis is a silent epidemic that is preventable and treatable. Few people are currently having osteoporosis diagnosed early enough to receive the benefit of prevention. Therefore, most present with a fracture as the first clinical manifestation of the disease. The physician taking a history must have a high index of suspicion for osteoporosis. All women should be counseled about risk factors for osteoporosis. The diagnosis of this disease includes an evaluation of bone mineral density by radiologic technique. The osteopathic physician is uniquely well trained to recognize and diagnose osteoporosis.