Background
: Osteoporosis is the most common metabolic disease of the bone, and thought as public health problem due to its high prevalence and cost. Family physician as primary care physician is much interested in the osteoporosis. so we studied the rate of osteoporosis, severity and related risk factors of osteoporosis from high risk postmenopause women, in order to be helped in early diagnosis, treatment and prevention of osteoporosis.

Methods : Among 706 patients who have taken Bone Mineral Density examination(DEXA) from Nov. 11, 1992, to Jul. 31, 1993 at Dong San Medical Center, we selected 102 natural postmenopause women who were not related to 2nd osteoporosis. The data was gathered from the BMD examination, qustionnaire and chart review. these data were analyzed using SAS/PC stastistic program.

Results : The mean age is 57.7 years and postmenopause age is 47.6 years. Osteoporosis was defined when BMD of patient was below 90% of age-matched control value. Number of osteoporosis and normal group is 55 and 47, respectively. the rate of osteoporosis was 53.9%. The statistically significant difference was revealed between two groups in mean age, postmenopause age, duration of menstruation, duration after menopause, oral pill history, kyphosis and fracture history. In the multiple regression of risk factors to osteoporosis, height and postmenopause age had significant relation to the osteoporosis, and weight and Body Mass Index had trended to osteoporosis.

Conclusion : Family physician should consider there risk factors of the osteoporosis when postmenopause women visit. We think that the more precise study for risk factors to osteoporosis is essential.