Osteoporosis and hip fracture

Osteoporosis is a major factor contributing to the deterioration of quality of life in older women as a result of back pain, disfiguring collapse of the spine, or impaired mobility following hip fracture. New technologies measuring bone mass permit the early detection of this disease, however, so that appropriate intervention can be initiated to both preserve and increase bone strength. Recent advances in understanding of bone biology and the role of the fall in hip fracture are speeding the development of new strategies for the treatment of osteoporosis and the prevention of hip fracture.