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Osteoporosis Risk Assessments
(Brittle Bone Disease) affects one in every two women
and one in every five men in this country during their
lifetime. Without intervention, its development takes
place largely unnoticed until fracture occurs.
The great tragedy is that osteoporosis is largely
preventable, provided that people at increased risk
are identified early enough. The disease can affect
people of all ages and can cause pain, disability and
deformity.
A fracture risk assessment must take account of the
patient’s clinical history, lifestyle and symptoms.
The most important determinant of bone strength is bone
mineral density and upon examination is therefore a
justifiable means by which we classify the disease. |
Osteoporosis
Risk Assessments
‘Everyone loses bone with age, but not everyone
develops osteoporosis. For those persons at risk of
suffering the disease, early identification is crucial.'
Post examination reporting is done by a consultant
rheumatologist, with referral letters sent to patients’
GP’s as appropriate.
Once registered, patients are offered the opportunity
of receiving further assessments at regular intervals
thereafter.
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