Patient education--the forgotten link in managing osteoporosis
Laslett, L.L.; McNeil, J.D.; Lynch, J.
Australian Family Physician 33(3): 121-124
2004
ISSN/ISBN: 0300-8495 PMID: 15054974 Document Number: 568938
Osteoporosis and bone fractures are common, yet osteoporosis is under diagnosed in Australian settings. Osteoporosis can now be reliably diagnosed, and safely and effectively treated, but patient education strategies are under utilised. This article discusses the role of education in osteoporosis risk reduction and management. Osteoporosis education initiatives such as the Osteoporosis Prevention and Self Management Course can increase knowledge, self efficacy and health related behaviours such as calcium intake and exercise over the short to medium term.