Around 80 percent of those affected are women, 20 percent are men. Particularly problematic is that after an osteoporosis-related fracture, such as a femoral neck fracture, less than 20 percent of patients receive further therapy after their hospital stay, according to Thun.

Austria Has the Third Highest Rate of Femoral Neck Fractures Worldwide

This care gap is alarming, as Austria has the third highest rate of femoral neck fractures worldwide – only Denmark and Sweden have higher numbers.

After being discharged from the hospital, only 15 percent of women and ten percent of men continue to receive osteoporosis therapy after 18 months. "We do not know exactly why this is," said Thun. It is likely a combination of several factors. The economic costs of the fractures are certainly high.

Rapid Start of Therapy After a Fracture is Crucial

Osteoporosis leads over a longer period to a reduction in bone mass, making the bones more unstable and more prone to fractures. In the case of typical osteoporotic fractures, such as those at the femoral neck or vertebral bodies, a bone density measurement can often be omitted. It is crucial to "treat very quickly," emphasized Thun.

Particularly alarming is the increased mortality after a fracture: Around 25 percent of patients die within a year indirectly from the consequences of a femoral neck fracture. This mortality rate is comparable to that of cancer and is even higher in men than in women. "Many fear cardiovascular diseases or cancer, but osteoporosis is also a serious threat," warned the expert.

One in Three Over 50 Suffers an Osteoporotic Fracture

Statistically, one in three women and one in five men over 50 suffer an osteoporotic fracture. The individual risk can be medically determined. In cases of particularly high risk, an anabolic therapy for bone building is recommended. It is important to have a continuous intake of medication, always in combination with calcium and vitamin D. Additionally, exercise must be promoted, as lack of exercise, low-protein diet, underweight, certain medications, smoking, and alcohol consumption can increase the risk of osteoporosis.

The pharmacy conference in Schladming is under the motto "Rheumatism - a disease with many faces" this year. The four-day event in the Liezen district is fully booked with around 650 participants.

(APA/Red)

This article has been automatically translated, read the original article here.