Initiative to fight bone disease

Organizers set up screening booths in three emirates.

ABU DHABI // A free bone-scanning initiative is being launched to raise awareness of the disorder osteoporosis. Organisers are hoping to screen more than 25,000 people at booths in Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Sharjah. Osteoporosis, characterised by weak bones, affects a third of women and a fifth of men. It is estimated that 70 per cent of post-menopausal women in the UAE have low bone mass, which increases the risk of fracture, is a major cause of disability, reduces independence and can even cause death. Some of the causes of low bone mass are calcium deficiencies, low physical activity and a vitamin D deficiency.

Dr Humeira Badsha, a specialist rheumatologist at the Dubai Bone and Joint Center, said: "Approximately 80 per cent of post-menopausal Emirati women suffer from a vitamin D deficiency and this number is on the rise. "Osteoporosis does not have clear symptoms, sometimes a fracture is the first sign and by then, the damage has already been done and is very difficult to reverse." Dr Badsha added: "Regular bone mass density checks and an adequate supply of calcium are preventive measures that should be the top of the list of priorities for every woman."

There is no cure but it can be controlled. The medicines available now build bone, protect against bone loss, and halt the progress of this disease. The initiative will begin next week, targeting Emiratis and expatriates. Booths will be set up at government offices and shopping centres in the three emirates, but the locations have not yet been confirmed. [e-mail]