Current approach to fracture prevention in postmenopausal osteoporosis.

The prevention and management of osteoporosis are becoming increasingly prominent concerns as the number of postmenopausal women reaching old age continues to grow. Often the first sign of osteoporosis is a fractured bone. It is important that women with low bone density be identified as early as possible and measures taken to reverse the process. These include proper diet and exercise, supplements of calcium and vitamin D, and in cases with proven osteoporosis, antiresorptive or anabolic agents to improve bone strength. Women should also be cautioned to avoid falling as much as possible.