Every third woman suffers from osteoporosis, said Dr Deepa Thangamani, obstetrician and gynecologist, to a packed audience recently.
The doctor was one of the two medical experts who gave a presentation at the Continuing Medical Education (CME) programme organised by Apollo First Med Hospitals, Indian Medical Association, Poonamallee High Road Branch, and IMA Academy of Medical Specialties, Chennai Chapter.
Dr Deepa, who was speaking on women and Osteoporosis, said that osteoporosis, which is a progressive bone disease, begins to occur due to reduced bone mass. “There are three types of osteoporosis: post menopausal, senile and secondary. It all depends on bone mass,” she said and explained that the bone density peaks during mid to late 20s and starts to decrease around 30.
The gynecologist said that fracture is a major risk for people with osteoporosis and went on to explain the diagnosis, treatment and ways to prevent this bone disease. “Both treatment and prevention involves similar ways. Both need lifestyle modification. Proper diet, exposure to sunlight and physical exercise is very important,” the doctor said and elaborated on the treatments given to patients with osteoporosis.
In another presentation titled ‘Know your joints’, Dr K Krishnamoorthy, orthopedic, arthroscopy and joint replacement surgeon, gave a presentation on bones, their joints and how osteoporosis can affect them, the symptoms, diagnosis and management.
The CME had not just doctors but also others showing a keen interest in knowing more about the disease. Dr AJ Prem Kumar Satya, President, IMA, Poonamallee High Road Branch earlier said that IMA had been holding regular CME programmes with Apollo. Dr KC Krishnakumar, Asst Director, Medical Services, Apollo First Med Hospitals was also present at the programme.