The most dangerous fractures are those of the hip, especially for elderly people. Studies have found that only about a third of people who suffer a hip fracture return to normal even after treatment. In fact, about 20% of older adults who suffer this fracture die within a year. Another important factor in the prognosis of osteoporosis patients is whether the condition is detected early or late. If the condition is detected early enough, corrective measures are likely to be successful and slow osteoporosis. Late diagnosis is problematic as it is difficult to successfully reverse advanced osteoporosis. Your doctor may be able to check your potential for developing osteoporosis using the WHO Fracture Risk Assessment Tool (FRAX®). The tool uses information such as bone density and lifestyle to predict the chances of breaking a bone such as the spine, hip, forearm and shoulder over the next ten years. This will guide your doctor in determining the correct intervention, including the administration of osteoporosis medications.