Aging in Motion (AIM) is a coalition of organizations working to advance research and treatment of sarcopenia and age-related functional decline; it’s led by the Alliance.
Alliance Develops Osteoporosis Tool for Health Professionals
Published May 8, 2008
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Alliance for Aging Research Develops New Osteoporosis Tool for Health Care Professionals
Clipboard tool with algorithm helps diagnose and treat bone disease
May 8th, 2008, Washington, D.C. – In recognition of National Osteoporosis Awareness and Prevention Month, the Alliance for Aging Research released an osteoporosis prevention and treatment clipboard tool. The user-friendly tool is designed to assist health care professionals in determining the best management plan for all patients who are at risk for or have osteoporosis, as well as facilitate important conversations about bone health. The tool provides current information on osteoporosis prevention and treatment and incorporates the latest clinical recommendations from the National Osteoporosis Foundation.
Osteoporosis affects 10 million Americans over the age of 50, and close to 34 million more have low bone mass which increases their risk for the disease. It is a disease which affects the bones, making them fragile and more likely to break. Fractures from osteoporosis most often occur in the hip, wrist, and spine. The good news is that osteoporosis can be prevented and treated. Fractures can even be prevented in individuals already diagnosed with the disease, especially if diagnosed early.
The Alliance’s laminated clipboard tool is an easy-to-use, go-to resource for physicians and other health care professionals. The tool includes treatment guidelines, a chart of FDA-approved osteoporosis medications, and tips on discussing prevention and risk factor reduction with patients. The treatment algorithm provides step-by-step diagnostic and treatment instructions based on a person’s age, gender, and health status.
This tool was supported by an educational grant from Roche and GlaxoSmithKline. To order the tool, download a free copy, or find additional materials on osteoporosis, visit the Alliance website at www.agingresearch.org or call 202.293.2856.
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Founded in 1986, the Alliance for Aging Research is a nonprofit, independent organization dedicated to improving the health and independence of aging Americans through public and private funding of medical research and geriatric education. The Alliance combines the interest of top scientists, public officials, business executives, and foundation leaders to promote a greater national investment in research and new technologies that will prepare our nation for the coming senior boom, and improve the quality of life for today’s older generation.