Down to the bone

Many women joined us last week for a seminar at Hillel Yaffe Medical Center to learn about innovations and updates in the field of osteoporosis. Middle-aged women face the highest risk for osteoporosis due to the sudden drop in their levels of estrogen, a hormone that is crucial for healthy bones and bone growth. Approximately one of every three women over age 50 suffers from osteoporosis.

The seminar was opened by Deputy Director Dr. Benny Abo, who welcomed the participants and emphasized the importance that the Hillel Yaffe administration attributes to strengthening ties with the community. Dr. Anat Yaffe, Director of the Endocrinology and Diabetes Unit at Hillel Yaffe Medical Center, presented the life mechanisms of a healthy bone compared to a bone with osteoporosis. She described risk factors, diagnosis, and complications such as osteoporosis-related fractures. She also reviewed the different treatments available for the condition as well as other healthcare services. She stated, "When it comes to osteoporosis, there is no such thing as too late or too early. There are things that can be done from a young age to prevent osteoporosis, like routine exercise and a healthy diet that provides the body with everything that it needs, including calcium and vitamin D which is crucial for calcium absorption."

Dr. Anat Yaffe opens the seminar

Ms. Sarah Stern-Kitai, Director of the Diet Service at the medical center, talked about recommended nutrition for maintaining healthy bone structure, and gave professional tips on how to increase effective calcium absorption. Later, Spinal Unit Director Dr. Eyal Behrbalk spoke about osteoporosis-related spinal fractures, particularly those that require surgery. "The seminar was an excellent opportunity to expose osteoporosis patients to this field and to the innovative treatments that are available. This will help them cope better with the illness and its impact," said Dr. Yaffe.