DOHA: Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC) recommends that all women above the age of 65 and men above 70 are screened for osteoporosis as early detection of the health condition can help protect bones and
muscles.
Dr Nabeel Abdulla, Consultant, Rheumatology Division, HMC also recommends screening for younger people who are at a high risk of suffering from a fracture as a result of using certain medications such as steroids, have parents with a hip fracture or a personal history of bone fragility fracture, a fracture occurring spontaneously or following a minor trauma.
Screening for osteoporosis is available at primary health centres.
“Prevention of osteoporosis through screening and early detection can help protect your bone health and strong bones and muscles will keep people active and mobile, so they can enjoy independence and good quality of life during old age,” said Dr Abdulla.
In recognition of World Osteoporosis Day (WOD), HMC is raising awareness on the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of osteoporosis throughout 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 200 million people worldwide.
“Osteoporosis is under-diagnosed because it is a silent, 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 additional fractures resulting in chronic pain, long term disability and even death,” said Dr Izzat Khanjar, Senior Consultant in HMC’s Rheumatology Division.
Members of the public who want more information about osteoporosis can visit Hamad General Hospital until October 20 to collect patient education materials and ask any questions they may have about the disease.
