Al-Ahli Hospital will celebrate World Osteoporosis Day with a Public Interaction Program at its premises on Wednesday, 20 October 2010.  The hospital will offer free tests including Bone Mineral Density, advice by doctors, laboratory staff and dieticians from 3pm until 6pm at Al-Ahli Hospital’s main lobby.  Members of the public are also invited to a free seminar on the same day at 7pm in the hospital’s auditorium, where experts from Al-Ahli Hospital will provide vital information on Osteoporosis and its treatment options.

Dr. Abdul Azim Abdul Wahab Hussain, Medical Director of Al-Ahli Hospital stated, “Osteoporosis is the thinning of bones and reduction of bone mass due to the decrease or depletion of calcium and bone protein.  This is very common particularly in post-menopausal women and those who take steroids.  If Osteoporosis is not treated early, it can lead to physical abnormality.  It is our endeavor to allow as many people as possible to participate in our program on World Osteoporosis Day in order that we may be able to detect Osteoporosis at its early stages and recommend necessary treatment.”

 

Dr. Emmanuel Tolessa, Consultant Orthopedic Surgeon and Clinical Director of Orthopedics and Traumatology Department, stated, “Today it is possible to detect Osteoporosis at an early stage.  Treatment of Osteoporosis includes diet changes and ensuring that the diet contains sufficient calcium and minerals for new bone growth, or proper hormonal supplements for post menopausal women. Our program on World Osteoporosis Day is split into two parts which include free tests and advice to the public from 3pm until 6pm and thereafter a seminar for participants starting at 7pm.  Participants wishing to attend the afternoon session need not register and may come directly to the hospital lobby area, while those who wish to attend the evening seminar will have to pre-register by calling 44898797.”

 

Dr. Majid Abi Saab, Consultant Rheumatologist stated, “As a Rheumatologist, I have seen many cases of Osteoporosis especially in women where, in addition to age, the transition of menopause itself causes an extra degree of bone loss.  Women can lose up to 20% of the total bone during this time.  This often results in a higher risk of fractures in post-menopausal women compared to men of the same age.  But men too can be at risk of Osteoporosis, especially if they have certain illnesses, a low testosterone level, are smokers and take certain medications, or lead a sedentary lifestyle.”