Educating Health Care Professionals, Patients and the Society on the Problem of Osteoporosis
Issue: 1/2002
Abstract:
The informedness about osteoporosis both among physicians and society in general is low in Bulgaria as well as in the world, hence the major aims of the educational programs. They are intended for health care professionals, osteoporotic patients and the society as a whole.
A. The educational programs for patients were developed by BLPO two years ago. The objective was to increase the pacient's, awareness of his own health. It was acomplished by: 1. A course of lectures for patients with osteoporosis. 2. Creation publishing and distribution of 3000 educational booklets "Let's preserve the bones" and 2000 books with physical exercises.
B. Education programs directed to the society: 1. A campaign of free bone mineral density measurement. 2. Epidemiological study of food intake, harmful habits and physical activity of middle-aged women in Bulgaria. 3. Children's health educational program entitled "Let's grow strong". Childhood is a favourable period for estabilishing healhty eating habits and positive attitude towards exercising – routines that will form a good lifestyle as the individual grows up. N. Jordanov, a famous Bulgarian poet wrote a story, P. Popov created the "Milk song" and a concert was organized before 3000 children in Hall 1 of the National Palace of Culture. The concert was broadcasted on the TV and the National Radio. 4. Various educational events in the mass media – newspapers, journals, TV channels, and radiostations
C. The educational programs for health care professionals aim to train general practtioners and consultants, as well as the other health care officers who are to teach further the osteoporotic patients and the society as a whole. 1.Practical training course "Educating the educators"; 2. Publishing and distributing of a manual with basic knowledge on the care for osteoporotic patients – "Osteoporosis – good clinical practice".
The educational programs are aimed at generating in Bulgarians awareness and responsibility for their own health, high self-esteem and quality of life. It is easier to introduce this new thinking and life style in the young.
