Osteoporosis A Silent Threat, Take Early Preventive Measures - SMC Geriatrician

KUALA LUMPUR, Dec 23 (Bernama) -- Osteoporosis, often referred to as the ‘silent disease’, can gradually weaken bones without obvious symptoms until serious fractures occur, and the condition is becoming increasingly concerning in Malaysia due to changes in diet and lifestyle.

Consultant Geriatrician at Sunway Medical Centre, Bandar Sunway (SMC) Dr Edward Chong Kah Chun said most patients only realise they have osteoporosis after suffering a fragility fracture, which is a fracture caused by a minor fall or low-impact injury that would not normally damage healthy bones.

“Osteoporosis does not cause pain or clear warning signs until it is too late. Most patients are diagnosed only after experiencing a fragility fracture, which occurs due to a fall or minor impact that would not normally injure healthy bone. By then, the disease has already caused significant damage,” he said in a statement.

According to Dr Chong, fragility fractures commonly occur at the hip, spine and wrist, each of which can have serious consequences.

“Hip fractures are the most severe as they often result in prolonged loss of mobility.

“Based on global data, one in four patients is at risk of dying within a year after a hip fracture due to complications,” he said.

Beyond physical effects, Dr Chong said osteoporosis also has emotional consequences, as patients often develop a fear of falling, which limits movement and increases the risk of muscle weakness and social isolation.

He said the rising incidence of osteoporosis in Malaysia is influenced by dietary and lifestyle factors, including inadequate calcium intake and vitamin D deficiency due to limited exposure to sunlight.

“Despite Malaysia’s tropical climate, many people avoid sun exposure. Vitamin D is crucial for calcium absorption and bone health,” he said, adding that while women are at higher risk after menopause, men are also not exempt.

On screening, Dr Chong said the Malaysian Clinical Practice Guidelines (CPG) 2022 recommend immediate screening for individuals who experience low-trauma fractures, as well as women aged 50 and above and men aged 70 and above.

“Screening using a dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) scan is the standard, simple and non-invasive test to measure bone mineral density. Early assessment allows treatment to begin before serious fractures occur,” he said.

He said osteoporosis treatment includes adequate nutrition, regular physical activity and medication depending on the severity of the disease.

“We recommend an intake of about 1,000 milligrams of calcium and 800 IU of vitamin D daily, along with exercises such as walking, light weight training and Tai Chi to improve bone strength and balance,” he said.

Dr Chong also stressed the role of family members in prevention, including ensuring a safe home environment and encouraging older adults to remain active.

“Osteoporosis prevention begins at a young age. Strong bones are built over a lifetime and form the foundation for independence and mobility in later years,” he said.

-- BERNAMA