In 2022, the estimated number of osteoporosis patients in Poland was 2.1 million, yet less than 5 percent were receiving treatment. Doctors say this gap underscores the urgent need for both increased awareness and education.
This disease weakens bones, increasing the risk of fractures. The campaign aims to educate the public on osteoporosis and promote healthy lifestyle choices.
Osteoporosis progresses painlessly, complicating early diagnosis. Factors contributing to its onset include age, gender, smoking, alcohol abuse, sedentary lifestyle, and a lack of calcium and vitamin D.
At a press conference in Warsaw, the National Consultant in Rheumatology, Prof. Brygida Kwiatkowska, highlighted the lack of osteoporosis education and prevention efforts in Poland.
Shockingly, in certain regions, from 60 to 80 percent of osteoporosis patients remain undiagnosed, she said, emphasizing the importance of public education in tackling this issue.
Poland records approximately 120,000 osteoporosis-related bone fractures annually. These fractures, often resulting from minor falls or even sneezing or coughing, serve as early indicators of the disease.
Kwiatkowska mentioned a simple height measurement as a preliminary screening tool; a loss of 4 cm or more could indicate gradual spinal compression fractures.
The National Consultant in Public Health, Prof. Jarosław Pinkas, stressed the necessity of public knowledge about health, advocating for science-based medicine.
The campaign's goals are clear: increase osteoporosis awareness and encourage healthy choices, including daily exercise and a balanced diet rich in calcium and vitamin D.
Magdalena Kołodziej, head of the MY Patients Foundation and campaign initiator, aims to educate those over 50 about a nutritious diet and an age-appropriate active lifestyle.
She also seeks to sensitize the medical community to monitor risk factors and implement early osteoporosis diagnostics, including height measurement. Ensuring that patients with osteoporotic fractures are referred to osteoporosis clinics is crucial.
Well-known singer and music producer Anna Jurksztowicz, who turned 60 last year, serves as the campaign's ambassador – bringing a familiar face to this significant healthcare initiative.
The campaign will include patient meetings and an "osteobus" tour across Poland, offering examinations and consultations.
Information in Polish about osteoporosis can be found on the campaign website, www.zmierzsie.pl.
(rt/gs)
Source: PAP
