How many seniors were identified as high-risk for osteoporosis?

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Over 1,600 Seniors Identified as High-Risk for Osteoporosis

As of August 2024, the COSA Osteoporosis Community Screening Programme has screened over 5,000 eligible seniors. Of these, approximately 1,600 individuals, representing nearly 30% of those screened, were identified as high-risk. These individuals require further medical attention, including follow-up with doctors and dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) scans, for diagnosis and treatment planning.
Programme Success in Identifying At-Risk Individuals

The ongoing territory-wide initiative, a collaboration between The Department of Pharmacology and Pharmacy at The University of Hong Kong's LKS Faculty of Medicine and over 20 NGOs and multi-disciplinary medical societies, has been instrumental in detecting individuals susceptible to osteoporosis. The programme utilises the Chinese Osteoporosis Screening Algorithm (COSA), a tool specifically designed for the Chinese population, to assess risk through a brief, four-question assessment.
High Rates of Medical Follow-Up Observed

The "screening followed by referral" model has proven effective in encouraging seniors to seek necessary medical care. Based on follow-up data, around 60% of high-risk individuals have consulted doctors, and nearly 40% have undergone DXA scans. This proactive approach has led to approximately 90% of those diagnosed receiving confirmation of osteoporosis or osteopenia and commencing treatment.
Significant Gap in Osteoporosis Awareness and Screening

Despite the success of the COSA programme, an awareness survey conducted alongside the screenings revealed a concerning lack of understanding among seniors regarding osteoporosis. Approximately 80% of respondents were unaware that osteoporosis is often a "silent disease" with no early symptoms, with many mistaking knee pain for a symptom. Furthermore, only about 22% of seniors had previously undergone a DXA scan, indicating a substantial gap in bone health awareness and screening practices.

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How many seniors were identified as high-risk for osteoporosis?

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