Post-menopausal osteoporosis and the resulting fractures are an important cause of disability and loss of independence. They also increase the risk of morbidity and mortality. Given potential side effects, hormone replacement therapy is no longer recommended for menopausal women with risk of becoming osteoporotic. The very significant decrease in the use of these treatments is suspected of contributing to a resurgence in the incidence of osteoporotic fractures, particularly in women before the age of 70. There is a need for prevention of osteoporosis.