Osteoporosis is a bone disease that commonly affects post-menopausal women, and with the rising number of elderly, cases of osteoporosis are on the rise. It can lead to devastating fractures and disability for seniors, which not only negatively impact their quality of life, but can increase the risk of illness or disease.
Although there is treatment available for osteoporosis, a new review of the treatments available have uncovered serious gaps. In the review, titled Osteoporosis International, the researchers outlined the challenges that healthcare officials and policy makers face in providing adequate care for osteoporosis.
Not only did the researchers highlight gaps in treatment, but they also discuss possible solutions to address these issues.
The researchers outlined four main themes based on their findings, which were:
Co-author Professor Eugene McCloskey explained, “This review identifies, among other challenges, the current gaps in delivery of best clinical practice, low levels of public awareness, and insufficient access and funding for diagnosis and treatment. Sadly, these gaps are a clear reflection of the low priority currently given to bone health and fracture prevention in healthcare policy.”
Some of the challenges and solutions that the authors highlighted included:
Professor Cyrus Cooper concluded, “We cannot afford to ignore the current and growing burden that osteoporosis and fragility fractures impose upon societies around the world. As we now have the knowledge and tools needed to manage bone health optimally, I urge healthcare professionals, stakeholder organizations, and healthcare authorities to make a concerted effort to implement these tools. Prioritization of fragility fracture prevention must become a reality worldwide.”
Related Reading:
Osteoporosis fractures: Exercises and their benefits in reducing bone fracture risk
Osteoporosis diet plan: Foods to eat and avoid
Sources:http://link.springer.com/article/10.1007%2Fs00198-016-3894-y