In recognition of World Osteoporosis Day, Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC) is raising awareness of the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of osteoporosis this week.
Osteoporosis is a condition that weakens bones, making them fragile and more likely to fracture, particularly the hip, spine, and wrist.
Broken bones due to osteoporosis is a serious concern which affects more than 200mn people worldwide.
“Osteoporosis is under-diagnosed because it is a symptomless disease that usually only gets diagnosed once a patient sustains a fracture. The problem is, once an older patient suffers from a fracture, particularly of the hip and spine, this can lead to a cycle of fractures resulting in chronic pain, long term disability and even death,” said Dr Izzat Khanjar, senior consultant in HMC’s Rheumatology Division.
According to the International Osteoporosis Foundation, approximately one in three women and one in five men over the age of 50 will break a bone due to osteoporosis.
“Without early diagnosis and treatment, patients may face a future of severely reduced quality of life, loss of physical independence and premature death,” added Dr Khanjar.
As part of the awareness campaign entitled “Love Your Bones: Protect Your Future”, more than 400 HMC and Primary Health Care Corporation physicians will take part in a series of symposiums run by HMC’s Rheumatology Division at the Medicine Department.
The symposium will educate clinicians about the burden of osteoporosis, when to screen for it and when to refer patients to a rheumatologist for treatment.
Participants will also learn more about preventive measures so they can better educate their patients.
“Osteoporosis is not an unavoidable threat. Although it can be accelerated by various factors such as family history, there are steps everyone can take to prevent and fight this disease,” said Dr Nabeel Abdulla, a consultant at HMC’s Rheumatology Division.
“We want the public to understand that they are able to protect bone and muscle health at all ages by making simple lifestyle changes,” Dr Abdulla said. “This includes increasing exposure to sunlight, avoiding alcohol, quitting smoking, performing regular weight bearing exercises and eating a well-balanced diet which includes milk, cheese and fish.”
Those who want more information about osteoporosis can visit Hamad General Hospital until October 20 to collect patient education materials.