HKU Screening Program identifies 1,600 seniors at risk of osteoporosis, urges increased awareness and testing

A large-scale community program conducted by the University of Hong Kong (HKU) identified around 1,600 elderly individuals at elevated risk for osteoporosis who need referrals for further medical evaluation.  

The COSA Osteoporosis Community Screening Program was launched this year using the Chinese osteoporosis screening algorithm (COSA) questionnaire, by the Department of Pharmacology and Pharmacy, LKS Faculty of Medicine of HKU, in partnership with over 20 medical and social organizations.  

The questionnaire revealed that only 24 percent of respondents knew osteoporosis had no symptoms, while 49 percent mistakenly believed knee pain was a symptom, and only 22 percent had undergone a bone density test.  

Additionally, in recognition of World Osteoporosis Day on October 20, a screening event was held today (Oct 6) in Tuen Mun, where over 1,020 local seniors aged 60 and above were screened using COSA.  

Professor Cheung Ching-lung, the program’s leader, suggested that the government improve public education and actively screen the elderly for osteoporosis. He proposed making COSA a routine service at elderly centers, community health centers, and pharmacies.  

Cheung emphasized the need for better awareness among Hong Kong’s elderly about osteoporosis and regular bone density checks.  

Participants of the program answered questions about their gender, weight, age, and fracture history to assess their osteoporosis risk, achieving an accuracy rate of 74 to 94 percent. By August, over 5,000 individuals aged 50 and older had been screened.