On March 11, 2020, The World Health Organization (WHO) declared the COVID-19 outbreak a pandemic. This unprecedented world-wide crisis can be combated only through global solidarity and coordination.
Concerns are growing about the impact of COVID-19 on chronic diseases, including osteoporosis. The fall-out from COVID 19 on the Asia Pacific region – home to 4.5 billion people and already reeling under the huge health-economic burden of osteoporosis and osteoporotic fractures – will likely be enormous, since resources must perforce be redirected away from the management of chronic conditions, to addressing the more acute crisis of this novel infectious disease. However, it is important that people living with osteoporosis take actions to reduce their risks of exposure to COVID-19 while also continuing to be conscious of their bone health. It also behoves health care providers to achieve a balance between urgent management of this acute crisis while continuing to meet the needs of their patients living with osteoporosis.
The Asia Pacific Consortium on Osteoporosis (APCO) stands by all health care providers during this time and is committed to continuous engagement with, and the provision of up-to-date information on the management of osteoporosis during these turbulent times, and beyond.
For some practical solutions to managing osteoporosis during the peri-COVID 19 period, head here.
APCO is also pleased to provide healthcare providers with information regarding some simple exercises they can recommend to their elderly patients, to perform safely at home, while under lockdown in social isolation. Produced in English, Malay and Mandarin, these pamphlets are courtesy of the Osteoporosis and Bone Metabolism Unit, Department of Endocrinology and the Department of Physiotherapy at Singapore General Hospital, Singapore.
To download the pamphlet click on the required language below.
