The first study on Vietnamese human bones

Since August 2006, the Vietnam Rheumatology Association will conduct the first study on bone density and the rate of osteoporosis in Vietnam. This activity is especially meaningful for improving public health as well as improving physical conditions for Vietnamese people. Prof. Dr. Tran Ngoc An, Chairman of Vietnam Association of Rheumatology said:

Prof. Dr. Tran Ngoc An
(Photo: TN)

- The prevention of osteoporosis is a current issue of the world. In the past year alone, the World Osteoporosis Organization (IOF) has twice recommended that we need to pay more attention to this issue. However, until now, our country still has no specific data on normal bone density by gender and by age groups. The data must still be based on foreign documents. Meanwhile, if you want to prevent and treat osteoarthritis, the first thing to know is the rate of disease, bone quality (bone density) to have a plan to set up preventive measures to contribute to health care. community health. From August 2006, we will conduct the first study on bone density and osteoporosis fracture rate in Vietnamese people. This study was conducted in 4 provinces and cities representing the North and the South.

* Experts have warned about some devices that measure osteoporosis without quality assurance, so what research will be done to ensure accuracy?

- About 10 years ago, the concept of osteoporosis was vague and there was no standard method. Currently with the advancement of science and technology, there have been machines for assessing dual energy X-ray bone density (Dexa). This is also the method of evaluation according to the "Gold Standard" of the world, we will apply in this study. Currently, it is the method for the most reliable results in Vietnam. We also pay attention to other osteoporosis methods. For example, measure heel osteoporosis. This method can only speak on bone density in that location, help to assess the preliminary, reference nature, not fully reflect the bone quality.

* Currently, many dairy companies advertise calcium supplements to help prevent osteoporosis. Professor said the effective nature of these products? Are there any cases where calcium supplements are not recommended?

- In general, milk is a product that provides energy and micronutrients good for the body, so it is recommended to have regular use of milk at different ages. Calcium supplements are also considered useful in supporting osteoporosis. Calcium supplements in food will absorb better than daily calcium intake. However, people with severe renal impairment should not use this food. Drinking milk with calcium also needs to be reasonably recommended, with age-appropriate products. If you drink a lot, it is not absorbed and can cause digestive disorders and costly cost.

"In order to prevent osteoporosis, in addition to the use of calcium supplements, care should be taken about proper movement, balanced nutrition, alcohol, tobacco and carbonated water restrictions. Osteoporosis is a process, and it is best to create a high bone base from a young age, because after 30 years of age, the bones of the body decrease gradually. Children will limit bone density reduction and osteoporosis later, and the results of research on bone quality of Vietnamese people will contribute to the prevention of osteoporosis, which is the basis for building long-term programs for activities physical activity of Vietnamese people ".

Dr. Vu Thi Thanh Thuy , Deputy Head of Department of Musculoskeletal, Bach Mai Hospital (Hanoi)