KUCHING: Greater awareness on bone health is urgently needed as the prevalence of osteoporosis continues to grow among Malaysians, especially among women aged 50 and above.
Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian said in line with this goal, the 2025 World Osteoporosis Day celebration organised by Sarawak General Hospital (SGH) is significant in raising public understanding of the disease.
“Malaysia is projected to record the highest increase in hip fracture cases in Asia by 2050, a 3.55-fold rise due to the growing elderly population.
“Osteoporosis may be a silent disease, but its impact is not silent. It leads to various complications, including death within a year after a hip fracture for some patients,” he said.
Dr Sim who is Minister of Public Health, Housing and Local Government said this at the World Osteoporosis Open Day 2025 at the Day Care Centre, SGH here Tuesday (Oct 7).
He added that the risk of osteoporosis can begin as early as at age 50, especially among women aged 50 and above.
“The incidence rate of osteoporosis in Malaysia is nearly on par with other chronic diseases such as diabetes and hypertension.
“If one in six Malaysians has diabetes and one in five has hypertension, then the rate of osteoporosis is roughly similar, about one in four to five people,” he added.
Carrying the theme ‘It’s Unacceptable’, Dr Sim said the campaign sends a strong message that inaction is not an option.
“We cannot just remain silent. Hence, this initiative includes various health screenings such as bone checks, treatment advice, and important information on managing osteoporosis,” he said.
He also stressed that continuous efforts to raise public awareness are crucial so that people understand the importance of maintaining bone health from a young age through balanced nutrition and an active lifestyle.
“Prevention begins with awareness and simple daily habits such as regular exercise and adequate calcium intake. Bone health is not only for the elderly, it must be cared for from childhood.
“The public should also be proactive in monitoring bone health, including checking vitamin D levels early,” he added.
Echoing his views, SGH Director Dr Ngian Hie Ung said osteoporosis is often underestimated because it shows no symptoms in its early stages but can lead to serious consequences once fractures occur, especially in the hips.
“Osteoporosis makes bones brittle and easily fractured, even from minor pressure such as a fall or bending.
“The main causes include a sedentary lifestyle, lack of vitamin D, and low calcium intake even though Malaysia receives sunlight all year round,” she said.
She added that the disease commonly affects postmenopausal women, though men are also at risk, particularly if they are inactive or have a family history of the condition.
“Early prevention is crucial to avoid loss of mobility and permanent disability in old age,” she added.
