Announcements

New patient decision aid and other resources available on osteoporosis medications

A new interactive patient decision aid and other resources comparing the effectiveness of medications to prevent fractures in patients with low bone density are now available from AHRQ's Effective Health Care Program. The resources summarize research from the research review, Treatment to Prevent Fractures in Men and Women with Low Bone Density or Osteoporosis: Update of a 2007 Report.
For consumers, Reducing the Risk of Bone Fracture: A Review of the Research for Adults With Low Bone Density, describes how low bone density can boost the risk of fracture and what research has found about different types of treatments to lower the risk. A companion interactive online patient decision aid can help patients prepare to talk with their clinician about treatment options.
For clinicians, Treatment To Prevent Osteoporotic Fractures: An Update provides background on osteoporosis, research findings, and the clinical bottom line for osteoporosis treatment across therapy classes. A continuing medical education activity is available for health care professionals interested in receiving education credits, and a faculty slide set is available for those who wish to share this information with clinicians, researchers, and other health professionals.
To access this review and other materials that explore the effectiveness and risks of treatment options for various conditions, visit AHRQ's Effective Health Care Program Web site at http://www.effectivehealthcare.ahrq.gov.