Dr. Nasser Al-Quraini, a consultant in geriatrics, palliative medicine, and geriatric oncology, stressed the necessity of early diagnosis and improving screening methods to prevent serious fractures caused by osteoporosis in Kuwait. He believes that public awareness and up-to-date national research to determine the current prevalence of osteoporosis and evaluate existing screening and treatment services are essential.
The Nature and Prevalence of Osteoporosis
Dr. Al-Quraini explained that osteoporosis refers to a condition in which bones decrease in density and strength, making them more susceptible to fractures. This condition is known as a “silent disease” because it often does not show symptoms until a fracture occurs. He referenced a study from 2012 that showed approximately 20.2% of postmenopausal Kuwaiti women suffered from osteoporosis in the lumbar region and 12.5% in the femoral neck.
The Need for Research and Public Awareness
This specialist doctor emphasized the need for new research to determine current trends, especially among young adults. He added that risk factors such as physical inactivity, vitamin D deficiency, limited diets, and inadequate nutrition can lead to the development of osteoporosis. Despite the abundant sunlight in Kuwait, vitamin D deficiency remains a significant concern.
Al-Quraini also stressed the importance of balanced nutrition, regular exercise, and the use of vitamin D supplements when necessary. He recommended that women aged 65 and older and men aged 70 and older should undergo bone density screening. Additionally, young individuals with risk factors such as previous fractures, early menopause, low weight, smoking, or long-term use of corticosteroids may need earlier evaluation.
The Role of Exercise in Prevention and Treatment
Exercise plays a crucial role in the prevention and treatment of osteoporosis. Weight-bearing activities such as walking, climbing stairs, and dancing help maintain bone health, while resistance exercises strengthen muscles and apply beneficial mechanical load to the bones. Balance exercises are particularly valuable for older adults, as they improve stability and reduce the risk of falls.
However, Dr. Al-Quraini warned that exercise alone may not be sufficient for patients at high risk of fractures. Patients with severe osteoporosis or previous spinal fractures may require personalized exercise programs.
Available Treatments and the Need for Awareness
Dr. Al-Quraini noted that several effective medications for treating osteoporosis exist, including bisphosphonates, denosumab, and bone-building treatments such as teriparatide and romosozumab. Clinical research has shown that these treatments can reduce the risk of vertebral fractures by 40 to 70 percent and the risk of hip fractures by 40 to 50 percent.
He also emphasized the need to increase public awareness and timely diagnosis of the disease, stating that a patient may receive appropriate surgical treatment for a hip or wrist fracture but be discharged from the hospital without a comprehensive bone health assessment. Dr. Al-Quraini suggested that risk-based screening in primary health care centers should be strengthened and counseling services developed to identify patients with fractures due to bone weakness.
