Osteoporosis, the most common bone disease, is associated with significant morbidity and mortality in older women and men. Fractures related to osteoporosis occur in both women and men, at a total of approximately 2 million fractures per year. Though osteoporosis has a significant impact on older Americans, it remains under-diagnosed. This educational program will focus on diagnostic guidelines, appropriate pharmacologic recommendations, and treatment monitoring. PAs who participate in this program will be better able to diagnose patients with osteoporosis and recognize the impact of the disease. These PAs will also be more prepared to assess the clinical safety and efficacy profiles of pharmacologic therapies and select appropriate agents for patients with osteoporosis. Additionally, PAs will be better prepared to monitor patients who receive treatment for osteoporosis, including in the assessment of treatment response.

Learning Objectives

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• Apply current clinical practice guidelines in identifying patients at risk for osteoporosis
• Compare the safety and efficacy data of available medications for osteoporosis treatment
• Select appropriate pharmacologic treatment options for patients with osteoporosis
• Demonstrate appropriate monitoring of patients receiving therapy for osteoporosis and assess response to treatment

Acknowledgment of Commercial Support