Message from the Center Director

Health advancements in recent decades have led to increased life expectancy; however, industrialization and changes in lifestyle and environmental factors have altered disease patterns. Osteoporosis is a common issue for health systems and is often referred to as a hidden epidemic of today's world. This disease is characterized by decreased bone mass and an increased risk of fractures. It is estimated that around 200 million women worldwide suffer from this condition.

In 1990, osteoporosis was reported as the cause of 30% of all hip fractures in Asia. Osteoporosis-related fractures not only result in disability and mortality but also incur direct annual healthcare costs exceeding $3 billion in the United States alone. According to studies by the World Health Organization, by 2050, over 530 million individuals aged 65 and older will live in Asia, leading to more than 50% of all hip fractures occurring in this region. Therefore, the growing prevalence of osteoporosis will pose a more serious challenge in these countries.

The results of the comprehensive program for the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of osteoporosis in the country, conducted by the Osteoporosis Research Center at the Endocrinology and Metabolism Research Institute of Tehran University of Medical Sciences in collaboration with the Health Deputy of the Ministry of Health, Treatment, and Medical Education, indicate that approximately 70% of women and 50% of men over 50 years old are affected by osteoporosis or osteopenia. Additionally, the prevalence of vitamin D deficiency has been reported to be between 40% and 80% in various regions, while calcium intake meets only 60% and vitamin D intake only 15% of the daily requirements. Food fortification and promoting a culture of dairy consumption are appropriate measures to combat this disease. Therefore, the Endocrinology and Metabolism Research Institute at Tehran University of Medical Sciences, in collaboration with the Nutrition Improvement Office of the Ministry of Health, Treatment, and Medical Education, has initiated the fortification of milk with vitamin D.

Dr. Noushin Fahimfar

Director of the Osteoporosis Research Center