Health Days 2017

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World Osteoporosis Day

Introduction:

World Osteoporosis Day (WOD), marked on October 20 each year, is a year-long campaign dedicated to raising global awareness of the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of osteoporosis, especially after the age of 50. The campaign also focuses on the role of healthy diet and exercise in bone health and the effect of fractures, especially spine fractures, on the life style and much more, as well as taking early preventive measures to enjoy a high quality of life. There are many effective treatment options; nevertheless, osteoporosis is not detected early most of the times. Therefore, we should seek timely evaluation and treatment to reduce human, social and economic burden resulting from it.

Facts:

Osteoporosis is widespread problem worldwide, as one in three women and one in five men aged 50 years and over develop osteoporosis.
Osteoporosis constitutes a heavy burden on individuals in the future, if not detected and treated early.
Some risk factors can increase the likelihood of developing osteoporosis and fractures. Everyone should be aware of his health condition.
An individual with risk factors should quickly seek examination and treatment if needed, in order to improve the quality of his life in the future and protect himself from disability.

Objectives:

Promote awareness of osteoporosis worldwide.
Shed light on future consequences when diagnosis and treatment are neglected.
Improve understanding of the link between osteoporosis and fractures, which can be a major cause of disability and premature death in older persons.
Promote healthy nutrition and exercise as essential to bone health.
Focus on raising awareness during childhood and adolescence when bones are developing.
Advocate for preventive care worldwide.
Enable healthcare professionals and authorities to bridge the gap between community and healthcare centers.

Official Date:

Globally: October 20th, 2017
Locally: Al-Muharram 30th, 1439H

Theme:

Don't Let Osteoporosis Break You!

Target Groups:

Health professionals, including doctors, nurses, pharmacists and health educators.
Education professionals, including teachers, social workers and others.
School students.
Health decision-makers.
Health organizations and associations.
The public.