The dedicated advocates of the All-Russian osteoporosis patient organization ‘Osteorus’ are committed to raising awareness about the prevention of bone disease and to spreading the important messages of the annual World Osteoporosis Day campaign which is celebrated worldwide on October 20th. They work closely with representatives of the Russian Association on Osteoporosis (RAOP) who deliver educational and scientific lectures nationwide.

A recent example of the collaborative work by these two closely aligned national associations was held on the 19th of February at the municipal institution "Complex Center of Social Services of the Population of Kirovsky Region of the city of Yaroslavl”. Rheumatologist Dr. Khatia Gen. Gordjeladze, affiliated with the Regional Treatment and Diagnostic Center for Osteoporosis and Osteoarthritis, gave a lecture for the older adults about the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of osteoporosis. 

Dr. Gordjeladze responded to the audience’s many questions and she also illustrated how to use FRAX, a tool which serves to estimate fracture risk based on clinical risk factors. The participants were given a variety of brochures with useful advice about healthy nutrition and physical training. Elderly people have been isolated for almost a year because of the pandemic and it is very important for them to carry out the recommendations given by expert societies like the International Osteoporosis Foundation (IOF), RAOP  and ‘Osteorus’. This year the recommendations which are compiled in the IOF brochure "Falls Prevention" are especially important given the necessity of preventing falls and resulting fractures. This very useful brochure was presented at the lecture and was among the brochures distributed. As well, beautiful bookmarks with thematic tips designed by children (following lectures on bone-healthy lifestyles) were handed out to participants.

The idea of ‘Osteorus’ volunteers to organize educational activities to promote prevention regularly was supported by the local authorities and as a result they have been presenting at the Social Center for the third year in a row. Because of the Covid-19 pandemic, the meeting was held in compliance with all recommended safety and distancing requirements.

Events such as these underline the ongoing efforts by ‘Osteorus’ and the medical doctors of RAOP to promote primary prevention by increasing awareness and understanding of bone health and osteoporosis through educational events, including those at schools. By adapting information for students and reaching out to the young, the hope is that they will follow a healthy lifestyle and maintain healthy bones for life.