(MENAFN- The Peninsula) Doha: Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC) intends to establish a joint liaison clinic between the joint and rheumatology and orthopedic departments to treat fractures at the end of this year, in line with the development witnessed by the osteoporosis diagnostic and treatment services at the Corporation.
The aim of this clinic is to identify patients who suffer fractures as a result of minor trauma and suffer from osteoporosis and start their treatment to prevent further fractures.
The HMC's Rheumatology Division uses the latest technology and medication to diagnose and treat patients with osteoporosis and is continuing to collaborate with specialists across the globe to ensure patients in Qatar have access to world-class care.
Head of HMC Rheumatology Division Dr Samar Al Emadi said: "There is clear evidence that timely testing is critical to faster diagnosis, prompter treatment and better outcomes in many medical conditions, including osteoporosis. Today many people are more educated about the importance of good bone health and they understand that osteoporosis is not just a disease of the elderly. However, many people remain unaware that osteoporosis is a largely preventable disease. Our team is working with international experts to prepare an Osteoporosis Treatment Guideline as part of efforts to standardize osteoporosis care in Qatar. Last year we launched a national osteoporosis screening program and we recently introduced a program that will see all patients age 50 years and above who have experienced a fracture screened for the disease. Our Rheumatology and Orthopedic Departments are currently finalizing plans to open a Fracture Liaison Clinic later this year. The main aim for this clinic will be to identify patients with fragility (low impact trauma) fractures who have osteoporosis so that we can begin treatment in the hope of preventing further fractures."
Osteoporosis is often called a silent disease as patients seldom have signs or symptoms until a fracture occurs. While risk factors for the condition include older age, a family history of osteoporosis, low body weight, smoking, certain medical conditions and some medications, such as steroids (cortisone), and gender, with the disease being more common in women, many people with osteoporosis continue to go undiagnosed and untreated.
Rheumatology Consultant Dr. Nabeel Abdulla says healthcare professionals play an important role in educating their patients about bone health. He add that healthcare providers who have female patients over the age of 50 years should prioritize bone health, noting that early identification and treatment of low bone density is the most effective approach to preventing future fractures. Osteoporosis weakens the bones and can lead to painful fractures or severe disability. One in three women and one in five men over the age of 50 might be affected by osteoporosis during their lifetime. The condition can lead to fractures that can be followed by chronic pain, depression, and even reduced life expectancy. Both doctors and patients should be educated about this disease, and in particular about early symptoms. Sudden severe backache (due to a fractured or collapsed vertebra), a gradual loss of height and an accompanying stooped posture, and fractures that occur with minor trauma should all be viewed as possible warning signs. A bone mineral density test (BMD) and/or a fracture risk assessment can be important diagnostic tools and can help guide treatment options. Once the disease is identified, treatment can help strengthen bones and prevent further fractures."
Associate Rheumatology Consultant Dr Omar Alsaed said it is important for patients who have been prescribed osteoporosis medication to ensure they take it as directed. Dr. Alsaed added that patients with osteoporosis should make every effort to attend all scheduled medical appointments, noting that ongoing treatment is an important part of managing the disease. He said that the Rheumatology Division is working with HMC's Home Health Care Service to provide in-home care to patients who receive an injection every six months as part of their treatment plan to ensure that these patients continue to receive the medication on time.
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