Osteoporosis is a silent threat, a disease of the skeletal system that deteriorates the micro-architecture of bone tissue, increasing its fragility. To prevent, reduce the possibility of new fractures and better treat patients, the ASST of Bergamo Ovest inaugurates the new multidisciplinary service at the Treviglio-Caravaggio Hospital Fragility Fracture Unit. “Starting in September (2024, ndr), ASST Bergamo Ovest will provide the population with a dedicated service for the management of people with fractures and osteoporosis”, declares Dr. Giovanni Palazzo, general manager of Asst Bergamo Ovest. “The new Center will be able to take charge of patients diagnosed with bone fragility fractures from the moment they arrive at the Emergency Room and a multidisciplinary team of specialists will guide the patient along a treatment path structured over time. Born at the Orthopedics and Traumatology Operating Unit of the Hospital, this new service of excellence makes use of the skills of the various company specialist doctors who revolve around the management of fractured patients and the collaboration will allow the optimization of specific paths for the care and rehabilitation of the injured, usually over 65. I thank the professionals who promoted this initiative, Dr. Raymond Klumpp, director of the Orthopedics and Traumatology Department, and Dr. Giuseppina Resmini, an orthopedic doctor with many years of experience in the management of metabolic bone diseases and osteoporosis.”
Living a long life, but above all living well, without limitations on personal autonomy, is a goal that brings the prevention and treatment of osteoporosis to the forefront. And, unfortunately, we are facing a real public health emergency, destined to grow in the coming years due to the progressive aging of the population. According to the Ministry of Health, during their lifetime, approximately 40% of the population incurs a fracture of the femur, vertebra or wrist, mostly after the age of 65. In Italy, it is estimated that osteoporosis affects approximately 5 million people, of whom 80% are post-menopausal women.
The service offers a path for each fractured patient, both in the acute and rehabilitation phase. The insertion will take place at the same time as the first arrival at the Emergency Room; access can also take place through the already active clinics, as well as through the appropriate internal paths.