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Winchester Hospital’s Community Health Institute Screens 7,000th Participant in Free Osteoporosis Prevention and Early Detection Program
Winchester, Mass. – Winchester Hospital’s Community Health Institute recently screened the 7,000th participant in its free Osteoporosis Prevention and Early Detection Program. The milestone was achieved at a health fair held at Woodbriar of Wilmington, a rehabilitation and skilled nursing center.
Osteoporosis, or porous bone, is characterized by low bone mass and structural deterioration of bone tissue. While the disease can affect any bone, the hip, spine, and wrist are more likely to become increasingly fragile and susceptible to fracture. Bones can break as a result of a minor fall or even a simple sneeze or cough. Spinal or vertebral fractures also have serious consequences, including loss of height, severe back pain, and deformity.
Established in 2002, the Osteoporosis Prevention and Early Detection Program is one of Winchester Hospital’s community benefit programs. Participants complete an osteoporosis risk factor form, undergo a screening conducted with a bone ultrasonometer, and consult with a nurse who interprets the findings and reviews individual risk factors. If bone loss is found, a letter detailing the results is provided to the participant’s primary care physician for follow-up.
According to Cathy Wrotny, community benefit specialist and gerontological clinical specialist at Winchester Hospital’s Community Health Institute, the findings of the Osteoporosis Prevention and Early Detection Program support the state’s assertion that osteoporosis is a public health emergency. Of all the participants screened by Winchester Hospital’s Community Health Institute, 30 percent had osteopenia (mild to moderate bone loss) and 7 percent had osteoporosis (severe bone loss).
“While osteoporosis affects more women than men,” Wrotny notes, “it can strike either gender.”
In order to optimize bone health and help prevent osteoporosis, the National Osteoporosis Foundation recommends that people get the daily recommended amounts of calcium and vitamin D; engage in regular weight-bearing and muscle-strengthening exercise; and avoid smoking and excessive alcohol usage. Although there is no cure for osteoporosis, the disease’s progression can be monitored through a bone density test and treated with medication.
Winchester Hospital’s Community Health Institute conducts free, public screenings for bone loss in local schools, YMCAs, fitness centers, physician offices, health care facilities, and businesses. Establishments interested in hosting their own osteoporosis screening may call (781) 756-4700.
About Winchester Hospital’s Community Health Institute
Winchester Hospital’s Community Health Institute is committed to helping community members take responsibility for their health and well-being by offering the education and resources that change lives. Established in 1996, the Community Health Institute offers more than 30 programs and services throughout the year in disease management, childbirth, integrative therapies, fitness, yoga, Tai Chi/Qi Gong, CPR and first aid, weight management, career services and support groups. The institute is also home to two retail services: A Caring Place, which features wigs, bras, prostheses and head coverings for women living with cancer; and the Lactation Center Boutique, which offers the highest-quality breastfeeding supplies and support. For more information or to register, call the Community Health Institute at (781) 756-4700 or visit www.winchesterhospital.org. |
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