KUALA LUMPUR, Jan 9 (Bernama) -- In a bid to raise awareness about bone health and support the elderly community, Sunway Medical Centre Damansara (SMCD) is offering free Bone Mineral Densitometry (BMD) scans worth over RM100,000 for Malaysians aged 55 and above.
In a statement today, SMCD said the two-month campaign, running until February, will be open to the first 250 participants, who will also receive a complimentary consultation with an orthopaedic surgeon to discuss their results and gain further medical advice.
"The BMD screenings aim to raise awareness of osteoporosis and emphasise the importance of early detection, providing essential support to individuals at risk.
"This campaign empowers seniors to take proactive steps towards better bone health, fostering a healthier future for the elderly community,” the statement read.
The campaign was launched today and attended by SMCD chief executive officer Jasmine Lau Mooi Hun, SMCD medical director Dr Lee Tuan Cheong, representatives of Sunway Healthcare Group, corporate partners, various associations and consultants.
The initiative forms part of SMCD's corporate social responsibility (CSR) programme in conjunction with the hospital's opening last month. SMCD is the fourth tertiary hospital under the Sunway Healthcare Group.
According to Lau, the campaign aligns with the growing need to address osteoporosis, particularly as Malaysia’s ageing population continues to rise, with 8.1 per cent of citizens aged 65 and above in 2024.
“At Sunway Medical Centre Damansara, we are committed not only to providing exceptional medical care but also to positively impacting the community, especially here in Damansara. This campaign ensures everyone has access to the resources needed for a healthier future," she said.
According to the statement, early detection of osteoporosis is vital, as the condition often remains undiagnosed until fractures occur.
Citing statistics from the Bone Health Alliance Malaysia (2020), the statement revealed that 77 per cent of Malaysian women with post-menopausal osteoporosis remain undiagnosed.
"This CSR programme aims to highlight the importance of early detection and preventive care, leveraging SMCD’s orthopaedic expertise, which is a key area of focus for the hospital.
“By offering free bone scans, SMCD underscores its commitment to improving health outcomes and ensuring individuals receive the care they deserve," the statement said.
For more information about SMCD and its CSR initiatives contact 019-6269191.
-- BERNAMA
