Osteoporosis in Focus

Osteoporosis is a major healthcare problem, affecting the lives of many individuals worldwide. In the UK alone, up to 200,000 osteoporosis-related fractures occur annually - a figure that is set to increase as the population ages. Pharmacists see many patients with osteoporosis, and thus will benefit from a deeper understanding of this disease. Osteoporosis in Focus contains a clear, concise discussion of osteoporosis and reviews the role of the pharmacist in counselling patients on their illness, lifestyle and medicines. Chapter topics include prevention, monitoring the condition, clinical interventions, drug treatment, hormone replacement therapy, bisphosphonates, screening and pharmaceutical care.The third book of the 'in Focus' series, Osteoporosis in Focus should be read by all pharmacists as well as by healthcare professionals with an interest in osteoporosis.Niall Ferguson is Chief Pharmacist at Milton Keynes General Hospital, UK