Osteoporosis, a disease that weakens bones and increases fracture risk, affects millions in the Philippines, particularly postmenopausal women, experts said.
At the "Build New Bone" Protest E-Series held at the Westin Philippine Plaza, bone health experts emphasized tailored treatments and preventive strategies to combat the condition.
Dr. Monica Cabral, a member of the Philippine College of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism Board of Trustees, said proper nutrition and an active lifestyle are crucial for managing osteoporosis.
"Ensuring adequate calcium and vitamin D intake is vital," Cabral said. She recommended both dietary sources and supplements.
Weight-bearing exercises, such as walking or yoga, can strengthen bones and reduce the risk of falls, a leading cause of fractures in individuals with osteoporosis, she said.
For severe cases, medication may be necessary. Cabral said anabolic agents like romosozumab or human parathyroid hormones like teriparatide are used for postmenopausal women at high risk of fracture.
"Dual action medications that build bone and reduce bone breakdown may offer significant advantages for very high-risk patients," she said.
Romosozumab injections are administered monthly for 12 months, while teriparatide is injected daily for 24 months, to boost bone density. Maintenance therapies like bisphosphonates (alendronate or zoledronic acid) or denosumab are critical to sustain these gains, Cabral said.
"Stopping therapy suddenly without a maintenance plan can lead to a loss of bone density and an increased risk of fractures," she said.
Bone density should be reassessed every one to four years, depending on the patient's risk level, to allow for timely adjustments to treatment plans.
Cabral also stressed the importance of addressing environmental factors to mitigate fall risks, such as slippery floors or insufficient home safety measures.
"Medication is essential, but it must go hand in hand with preventative measures to truly protect patients," she said.
Early screening is crucial, particularly for postmenopausal women and individuals with a family history of osteoporosis, Cabral said.
"Osteoporosis is often diagnosed only after a fracture, but it doesn’t have to be this way," she said.
Cabral stressed that managing osteoporosis requires a multi-faceted approach.
"This isn’t a one-size-fits-all condition. Patients must work closely with their healthcare providers to create a personalized plan that blends medical treatment with lifestyle changes," she said.
Experts urged individuals to consult their doctors before making any changes to their treatment plans.