- The 2nd Training Conference on Osteoporosis is becoming a benchmark event to improve early detection, fracture prevention and the treatment of this disease
- This edition strengthens the role of nursing professionals in the management of this condition, health education, treatment adherence and patient follow-up
Alicante (16.06.26). Around 200 professionals from the province of Alicante have participated at Doctor Balmis General University Hospital in the 2nd Training Conference on Osteoporosis for Primary Care, organized by the Rheumatology Section of the center and the Alicante Institute for Health and Biomedical Research (ISABIAL).
Following the excellent reception of the first edition, held last year, the meeting has become a benchmark event for updating knowledge on a disease with a major health and social impact.
The conference has brought together Rheumatology specialists and Primary and Hospital Care professionals from different health departments in the province of Alicante to share knowledge, review the latest clinical recommendations and address current challenges in the prevention and treatment of osteoporosis.
The Head of the Rheumatology Section at Doctor Balmis Hospital and scientific director of ISABIAL, Dr. Paloma Vela, recalled that “osteoporosis is a highly prevalent condition with a growing incidence, associated on the one hand with increased life expectancy of the population, and on the other with the increasingly frequent use of essential treatments for serious conditions such as cancer, organ transplants or numerous chronic inflammatory diseases, which may have harmful effects on bone”.
Dr. Vela emphasized that “osteoporosis continues to represent a significant public health problem due to its high frequency and the serious consequences that may result from fragility fractures. However, we have increasingly precise diagnostic tools and effective treatments that make it possible to prevent and significantly reduce the risk of fractures, thereby improving patients’ quality of life”.
The disease affects approximately 26% of women over the age of 50 and 4.8% of men in the same age group. In addition, it is estimated that one in three women will suffer an osteoporotic fracture during their lifetime. These fractures, especially hip fractures in older people, are associated with high morbidity and mortality, loss of autonomy and deterioration in quality of life, making their prevention a healthcare priority.
During the meeting, key aspects were addressed such as the identification of patients at risk of fracture, diagnosis and decision-making in consultation, the most up-to-date therapeutic strategies, and the follow-up and prevention of fractures.
In continuity with the first edition, this second edition has also incorporated a practical Nursing workshop. The activity has focused on health education, treatment adherence and the prevention of complications, which are essential aspects for achieving adequate disease control.
In this regard, Dr. Vela emphasized that “prevention is key, and both Primary Care and Nursing professionals play an essential role in it. The promotion of healthy habits, an appropriate diet, regular physical activity, proper sun exposure and fall prevention are measures that decisively contribute to preserving bone health throughout life”.
Osteoporosis is one of the most common musculoskeletal conditions in Primary Care and generates a significant healthcare workload. In addition, the emergence of new clinical recommendations and innovative therapeutic options makes continuous updating of knowledge necessary to optimize patient care.