Early diagnosis of osteoporosis (wherein the bones are weak owing to low mineral density) can help in preventing fractures, said speakers at the World Osteoporosis Day events held at hospitals across the city recently. As part of the observance, the Coimbatore Medical College Hospital (CMCH) conducted a survey to know the bone strength, bone mineral density of 863 persons comprising of nursing and medical students , staff nurses , paramedical staff and doctors.
CMCH Dean Dr. P. Asokan and Dr. S. Verivelchehian, Head - Department of Orthopaedics said that the survey was conducted among medical personnel as per World Health Organisation (WHO) using quantitative ultra-sonogram (QUS).
At another celebration held at Ganga hospital, Chairman of the Department of Orthopaedics S. Rajasekaran said that every adult above 50 year should undergo assessment to prevent fractures.
Every year worldwide 8.9 million fractures occur as a result of osteoporosis and one in three women over 50 years and one in five men over 50 years are at risk.
Regular exercise, participation in sports activities, walking at least 2 km per day, avoiding smoking and alcohol, avoiding junk food, adequate calcium intake are the tips to keep osteoporosis at bay. Common causes are increased age and women after menopause are vulnerable,the speakers pointed out.
