[Hormone replacement therapy in the management of postmenopausal osteoporosis and prevention of fracture risk].

The consequences to the bone of estrogen deficiency are early and irreversible. Effective prevention of postmenopausal osteoporosis at the individual level requires early screening of women at risk of fractures and their early treatment. Hormone treatment prevents bone loss and has been proven effective in preventing fractures, even in situations of low risk. The benefit/risk ratio of hormone treatment can be optimized by the choice of the 'right moment' and the 'right treatment'. HRT, administered early and for a limited period, must be integrated into a strategy of long-term osteoporosis prevention that includes using the (drug and nondrug) means most appropriate to the patient's age and clinical condition and choosing the 'right moment' and 'right treatment.'