KUCHING: Deputy Premier of Sarawak Datuk Amar Professor Dr Sim Kui Hian called for greater public awareness and early preventative measures against osteoporosis, a 'silent disease' that often goes unnoticed until it causes serious damage.

Speaking at the World Osteoporosis Open Day held at the Day Care Centre at the Sarawak General Hospital, Datuk Amar Dr Sim said osteoporosis should no longer be treated lightly as the condition continues to claim lives and restrict mobility, particularly among the elderly.

He highlighted the concerning data shared by medical experts, stating that three out of five women aged 50 and above will suffer from osteoporosis-related fractures in their lifetime, while one in five Malaysians above 50 is affected by the disease.

“We take it for granted. But the impact is not silent,” he said, adding that the consequences of osteoporosis extend beyond pain, often leading to loss of independence and mental distress among patients.

Datuk Amar Dr Sim stressed that the condition is frequently overshadowed by other health concerns such as diabetes, hypertension and high cholesterol, even though it carries equally severe risks.

“We focus so much on sugar and blood pressure, but we forget our bones,” he remarked.

He noted that 25 percent of patients who suffer hip fractures die within twelve months, highlighting the fatal outcomes that can result when osteoporosis goes undiagnosed or untreated.

The Sarawak Deputy Premier also pointed out that lifestyle factors play a major role in weakening bone health.

Despite Malaysia’s tropical climate, vitamin D deficiency remains common due to limited outdoor activity and sedentary habits.

“We have 360 days of sun but still not enough vitamin D,” he said, adding that low calcium intake, poor milk consumption and minimal exercise further worsen the problem, especially among ageing populations.

Dr Sim reminded that prevention begins with awareness, urging individuals to adopt balanced diets, sunlight exposure and physical activity as daily habits.

“Osteoporosis is silent, but the impact is loud,” he said.

He also encouraged regular check-ups and early screening to detect bone loss before fractures occur, stressing that public education must reach families, workplaces and schools alike. -UKASnews