The Aging Female Patient: June 2003

Evidence-based Medicine or Magical Thinking
Karen D. Novielli, MD

From Perimenopause Through Postmenopause: Managing the Transition
Judi Chervenak, MD
This article reviews the clinical and quality of life evaluation of the
perimenopausal patient, and strategies for managing women through this transition. The author also addresses the need for continuing effective contraception as well as treating symptoms during this transition.

An Update on Osteoporosis
Risa Kagan, MD
Despite the economic burden of osteoporosis, many women have never been screened for risk of developing the disease. The author reviews the physiology, diagnosis, and current approaches to osteoporosis
prevention and treatment.

Hormone Replacement Therapy to Prevent Cardiovascular Disease
Shawky Z.A. Badawy, MD; Vadim V. Morozov, MD
In light of the recent data from the Women's Health Initiative, the author discusses hormone replacement therapy and its effect on lipid profile and cardioprotection, as well as the combination therapy controversy, role of HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors in coronary heart disease, and use of selective estrogen receptor modulators.

Diabetes: Treatment Considerations in Older Women
Peggy Soule Odegard, PharmD, BCPS, CDE; Shelly L. Gray, PharmD, MS, BCPS
Diabetes in older women is a serious illness that confers high cardiovascular risk, affecting functional ability and co-morbidity or mortality. The author emphasizes the choice of therapy in this population must take into account both age- and disease-related changes in pharmacokinetics to ensure safety and efficacy.

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