The Legislative Assembly of Goiás (ALEGO), through the Directorate of Health and Work Environment, promoted a lecture on the topic “Osteoporosis – How to deal with post-menopausal bone loss”. The event was held in Hall 1 of the Magheto Velella Palace, on the morning of Tuesday 28th of this month, with an explanation by the gynecologist from the Aldara Health Department, Mariana Melo, and the orthopedic surgeon Frederico Parra.
Host Dr. Al-Dar opened the lecture by explaining that osteoporosis is a disease characterized by low bone mineral density and deterioration of the microstructure of bone tissue, leading to increased bone fragility and the risk of fractures. Mariana notes that osteoporosis can be asymptomatic until the patient suffers a fracture. “It is estimated that only one in three patients with a hip fracture are diagnosed with osteoporosis. In many cases, individuals are not diagnosed with osteoporosis even after receiving medical treatment for the fracture.
Frederico Parra said the purpose of his talk was to provide employees with practical information about preventing osteoporotic fractures. “With the aging of the population, this disease will increase more and more, and there is a risk that a person will develop consequences after a fracture or even die, so we have to prevent it to avoid consequences in the future.”
Annual exams
The orthopedic doctor warned that from the age of fifty you should start undergoing examinations annually, and the main method for detecting osteoporosis is measuring bone density, also known as DEXA. He explained that this examination measures bone mineral density and is used to evaluate bone strength and the risk of fractures. “In this way, we can know if it is necessary to replace vitamin D, which is very important, with calcium, magnesium and minerals or if it requires more specific treatment.”
Frederico warned that one of the biggest causes of the disease is smoking and excessive alcohol consumption, and that being underweight can increase the risk of bone loss and fractures. The doctor explained that for those who already suffer from osteoporosis or are at high risk, medications may be prescribed to help prevent bone loss and reduce the risk of fractures. These medications include bisphosphonates, selective estrogen receptor modulators (SERMs), thyroid hormone, and denosumab, among others.
Finally, the doctor emphasized that preventing osteoporosis goes beyond regular medical monitoring, as it includes a combination of proper diet, regular exercise, and a healthy lifestyle. “Implementing these strategies from an early age can help build a strong bone foundation and significantly reduce the risk of osteoporosis and fractures later in life.”
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