Introduction: It is estimated that the number of osteoporotic hip fractures among Filipinos will reach 65, 000 by 2020 and 175,000 by 2050. In an attempt to improve the identification, diagnosis and treatment of osteoporosis in the province of Cebu, the Fracture Liaison Service (FLS) was started. This study aims to evaluate the implementation of this program for targeting these high-risk groups and improving secondary fracture prevention.
Methodology: All patients enrolled in the FLS of Chong Hua Hospital from September 2018 to May 2019 were included in this study. A total of 103 patients, above 50 years of age were interviewed and followed up. Utilizing the Fracture Liaison Assessment Form, the following data were collected: demographics, comorbidities, presence of fragility fracture or osteopenia, compliance to DEXA scan, treatment compliance, re-fracture rate and incidence of falls. Descriptive statistics using frequency count and percentages were used.
Results and Discussion: Majority of patients were within the 70?79 year old age group (33%) and majority were females (73%). Among the 103 enrollees, 32% had osteopenia while 68% had a fragility fracture involving the hip in 27.18%. While under the FLS care, 90.9% of patients were compliant with prescribed medications (calcium, antiosteoporotic drugs) and 98.86% were adherent to fall prevention exercises. No incidence of secondary fractures or falls after discharge.
Conclusion: The FLS care has improved the identification, assessment and initiation of treatment in patients at high risk for osteoporotic fracture. This approach has enhanced the pharmacologic compliance of patients and has helped prevent secondary fractures and falls in all patients enrolled in the program.
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