In his statement, Prof. Dr. Hakan Alkan, a faculty member of the Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation at PAU Hospitals, said: “Osteoporosis, a condition characterized by weakened and fragile bones due to decreased bone mineral density, is known as the ‘silent disease’ because it progresses without symptoms. Worldwide, it is estimated that one in three women and one in five men over the age of 50 will experience an osteoporosis-related fracture during their lifetime. Common spinal, wrist, and hip fractures resulting from osteoporosis can affect daily activities and reduce quality of life.

Osteoporosis is a disease that can be effectively treated without affecting quality of life when diagnosed early. Our aim is to identify the risk before a fracture occurs and take the necessary precautions in a timely manner. At our hospital, we prioritize assessing our patients’ bone health at an early stage in a reliable and timely manner, without compromising quality, using our bone mineral density measurement devices (DEXA), which comply with international standards. We also aim to reach more people by reducing appointment waiting times and ensuring that treatment begins on time.

Early diagnosis is our strongest weapon in the fight against osteoporosis. If you are in a risk group for osteoporosis, you should consult the relevant specialist physicians. Postmenopausal women, individuals over the age of 65, those with a family history of hip fractures, people who have used corticosteroids for a long time, and individuals with low body weight should consult their physicians about DEXA screening.

“Regular Exercise and a Balanced Diet Are Important for Maintaining Bone Health.”

Stating that regular exercise and a balanced diet are essential both for preventing and treating osteoporosis, Prof. Dr. Hakan Alkan continued: “Weight-bearing activities such as walking, climbing stairs, and jumping, as well as resistance exercises, strengthen bone structure. Balance exercises reduce the risk of falls. It is essential to ensure adequate daily intake of calcium and vitamin D through food. To prevent falls, necessary precautions should be taken to address slippery floors, inadequate lighting, and objects that pose tripping hazards in the home. Individuals’ use of multiple medications should also be reviewed. People should get sufficient sunlight exposure and avoid harmful habits such as smoking and alcohol consumption.

Specialists in Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Internal Medicine, Endocrinology, Orthopedics, and Obstetrics and Gynecology play important roles in the diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation of osteoporosis. In addition to medication management, treatment includes personalized exercise and diet programs, fall prevention education, and pain management.

Protecting our bones today is the key to an active, healthy, and independent life tomorrow. I invite members of the public to learn about their risk factors and, when necessary, seek care at our hospital for effective, reliable, and high-quality diagnostic and treatment services.”