Osteopenia and Osteoporosis

This chapter describes key factors specific to asthmatic patients that directly or indirectly affect bone health. The well-established association of corticosteroid therapy with osteoporosis is discussed, as are less commonly known and emerging osteoporosis risk factors pertinent to asthmatic patients. Additionally, osteoporosis management and therapy are reviewed, with a discussion of the role of the asthma specialist in preventing, screening, and treating osteoporosis and osteopenia.