29/12/2025

MONDAY | DEC 29, 2025

26

HEALTH

Thief of bone strength

HEALTH MONITORING ON SMARTWATCH Sunway Medical Centre Velocity has collaborated with Samsung Malaysia Electronics Sdn Bhd to introduce the Galaxy Watch8 Health Screening Package, designed to complement the features of the newly launched Samsung Galaxy Watch8 series. Individuals can interpret and act on their health data with professional medical support. The package features a series of comprehensive assessments that align with the smartwatch’s advanced health functions, including vascular load monitoring. Vascular Load is available on Android phones (Android 10 or above) and requires the Samsung Health app (v6.30.2 or above). Samsung account login required. Priced at RM1,600, the Galaxy Watch8 Health Screening Package includes overview assessment, blood investigations, radiology and diagnostic assessment, lifestyle and wellness assessment and consultations. EXPANDING FERTILITY CARE ACCESS Sunway Fertility Centre and Salam Shah Alam Specialist Hospital have formalised a collaborative framework that enhances patient referral pathways, promotes shared clinical expertise and expands access to comprehensive fertility services for the community. This collaboration combines Salam Shah Alam Specialist Hospital’s community presence with Sunway Fertility Centre’s specialised expertise, ensuring patients receive a smooth and continuous continuum of care. Patients who undergo fertility screening and assessments at Salam can be seamlessly referred to Sunway Fertility Centre for advanced treatments such as IUI, IVF, IMSI and other assisted reproductive procedures. The fifth cluster focuses on public health, safety and prevention, with the ministry taking a tougher stance on key risk factors such as excessive sugar intake, smoking, and sedentary lifestyles, backed by new laws, including the 2024 Control of Tobacco Products for Public Health Act (Act 852), and a more comprehensive national prevention agenda. Looking to 2026, Dzulkefly said the ministry will focus on data- and empathy-driven talent management, easing congestion, optimising assets and strengthening public health through broader digitalisation. “The next phase requires strict implementation to mature these reforms, especially in facing an ageing population and global health risks,” he said. – Bernama Healthcare reform in M’sia THE Madani health reform, driven by five strategic clusters, aims to strengthen services and ensure a fair working environment for healthcare staff, Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad said. Reflecting on two years of reform, he said the effort aims to make the national healthcare system future-ready, focused and future-proof. “We are shifting the focus from sick care to preventive health care,” he said in a Facebook post. Dzulkefly said the first cluster targets institutional and governance reforms to make the Health Ministry’s functions clearer, more focused and accountable. For the second cluster on health service delivery reform, he said the ministry is reforming services by optimising capacity and modernising facilities. “Despite the technical challenges of integrating diverse data systems, we remain committed to digitising medical records and implementing digital appointment systems as core service modernisation measures,” he said. The third cluster focuses on health workforce reform, with the ministry making structural corrections, including amendments to the Medical Act 1971 and the largest permanent appointments in recent healthcare history. Dzulkefly said the fourth cluster, health financing reform, aims to secure the public healthcare system’s fiscal sustainability while ensuring fair and quality access for all.

A simple stretch. A slight stumble. And suddenly, a bone fracture. Often called the “silent disease”, osteoporosis quietly weakens the bones over time, showing no signs until a break occurs, often from seemingly harmless fall. Osteoporosis does not cause pain or visible warning signs until it is too late. Most people are diagnosed only after they have had a fragility fracture, a break caused by a minor fall or impact that would not normally injure healthy bone. By that time, the disease has already done its damage. When minor fall becomes big problem The most common osteoporosis-related or “fragility” fractures occur in the hip, spine and wrist, each with serious consequences. Hip fractures are the most severe because they often lead to prolonged immobility. Globally, one in four patients may not survive the first year after a hip fracture due to complications. Spinal fractures, on the other hand, can cause persistent back pain and nerve irritation, sometimes even from something as minor as sitting down too quickly. Wrist fractures, while less life-threatening, can make daily tasks such as walking, dressing or bathing difficult, especially if the dominant hand is affected. Beyond physical pain, osteoporosis can also take an emotional toll. Many patients develop what we call the “fear of falling”. They lose confidence in walking or leaving the house, which leads to muscle weakness and isolation. It becomes a vicious cycle – the less they move, the weaker they get. o Taking osteoporosis seriously with screening, lifestyle changes

Why Malaysians are at risk Osteoporosis is on the rise in Malaysia, driven by diet and lifestyle changes. Our local diet is rich and delicious, but not always balanced. Many people do not consume enough calcium-rich foods such as milk, cheese, yogurt, tofu or green leafy vegetables. Vitamin D deficiency is also common because we avoid the sun despite Malaysia’s tropical climate. Limited sun exposure means less vitamin D, which is vital for calcium absorption. Although foods such as salmon, tuna, anchovies and mushrooms can help, but daily morning sunlight remains the best natural source. Women face a higher risk after menopause as oestrogen levels drop. But men can also develop osteoporosis, especially if they have poor diets, smoke or take certain medications for long periods. When, how to screen for osteoporosis Malaysia’s Clinical Practice Guidelines on the Management of Osteoporosis 2022 recommend screening in several situations. Anyone who has suffered a low-trauma fracture, such as fall from standing height, should be screened immediately. Screening is also advised for women above 50 and men above 70, even if they appear healthy. The standard test is a Dexa (dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry) scan, which is a simple, non-invasive test that measures bone mineral density. Most hospitals and some specialist clinics offer this test. Early assessment is encouraged because it allows doctors to act before a serious fracture happens, improving patient safety, quality of care and long-term recovery. Stronger bones start with daily choices Treatment for osteoporosis usually combines lifestyle adjustments with medication. Nutrition is the foundation. Patients are encouraged to consume around 1,000mg of calcium and 800 IU of vitamin D daily. If diet alone is not enough, supplements may be prescribed.

Equally important is regular physical activity. Regular weight-bearing exercises, walking, jogging or light resistance exercises are needed to stimulate bone growth. Tai chi is another good option as it helps improve balance and prevent falls. For patients with severe bone loss, oral medications are commonly used to strengthen bones. Injectable or infusion treatments are available for more advanced cases and can be administered monthly or yearly depending on the patient’s condition. These therapies are highly effective when combined with proper follow-up and lifestyle care. How families can help Prevention also starts at home. Family members play a vital role for a patient’s safety. Simple changes such as removing loose rugs, improving lighting and installing grab bars in bathrooms can make a big difference. Families are also encouraged to keep loved ones active. Do not stop them from moving because you are afraid they will fall. Instead, join them to support for a short walk, help prepare nutritious meals and accompany them to medical appointments. It is about empowering, not restricting. Towards culture of prevention Public awareness is key to change. Osteoporosis prevention starts young with good nutrition, sunlight and movement. Strong bones are built over a lifetime. Community initiatives such as group exercise sessions, walking clubs or nutritional workshops can go a long way. It is never too early to start taking care of your bones. As we age, maintaining independence and mobility is everything. Strong bones are the foundation for that. Do not wait for a fall to remind you how precious they are. This article is contributed by Sunway Medical Centre, Sunway City consultant geriatrician Dr Edward Chong Kah Chun

BR I E F S

Osteoporosis silently weakens bones, often without symptoms, until a fracture occurs.