Osteoporosis-Related Risks in Older Women
Researchers investigated knowledge levels in patients regarding osteoporosis-related risks. The study concluded there was a lack of knowledge which can cause lower levels of detection and undertreatment, reports McKnights.
The study included 240 randomly selected women who were postmenopausal in a city in China. Researchers conducted a face-to-face questionnaire survey and bone mineral density tests on the women. About 52 percent of the women were concluded to have osteoporosis. Older women were more likely to have the condition.
Out of all women who were questioned, nine percent said they were not aware of the bone-weakening disease and about 60 percent said they knew little about it. About 53 percent had suffered from osteoporosis related fractures. However, of all women questioned, 65 percent had not received any kind of bone mineral density testing. Additionally, most of the women did not get any kind of treatment due to a lack of awareness regarding the disease. About 41 percent of the women said they would be willing to receive treatment only if they experienced pain or other adverse effects.
Read about the lack of osteoporosis prevention among older women.
When compared to United States, the knowledge levels are comparably low as well. The Harris Poll survey conducted for Radius Health in 2017 concluded that out of 1,000 postmenopausal women, 82 percent did not know the relationship between osteoporosis and bone fractures.
The North American Menopause Society has labeled osteoporosis as a global health concern. The adverse effects on the quality of life and increased healthcare costs and mortality risks have concerned policy makers.
According to the International Osteoporosis Foundation, about 20 percent of men and 33 percent of women who are over the age of 50 years are likely to have fractures relating to osteoporosis. Out of all patients who experience a hip fracture, about 24 percent will die, and out of the 40 percent who survive, many will lose their ability to walk.
Researchers concluded, “To ensure the prevention and control of osteoporosis, it is crucial to focus on increasing the examination and treatment rates and spreading awareness.”
Cornerstone Rehab clinicians provide physical, occupational and speech therapy to older adults in skilled nursing facilities. Our clinicians are trained to provide rehabilitation therapy to patients who may be diagnosed with osteoporosis or recovering from fractures.
Learn more about our job openings for physical therapists, occupational therapists and speech-language pathologists.