Frequency of osteoporosis in postmenopausal women treated at the Pedro Juan Caballero Regional Hospital-Paraguay, 2018 to 2020

Abstract

Introduction: Postmenopausal osteoporosis, characterized by decreased bone density, increases vulnerability to fractures and trauma. Approximately 13% of women suffer from it, mainly after menopause. Early identification of risk factors is crucial for timely diagnosis and treatment. Objective: The main objective of this study was to determine the frequency of osteoporosis in postmenopausal women treated at the Pedro Juan Caballero Regional Hospital, Amambay – Paraguay, between 2018 and 2020. Material and Method: A cross-sectional descriptive observational approach was used. with an experimental and quantitative design. The study population consisted of 60 postmenopausal patients. Variables such as postmenopausal disease, osteoporosis, age, marital status, education, occupation and risk factors were measured. Results: It was found that 16.8% of postmenopausal women had osteoporosis, 42% of them being between 50 and 54 years old. 58% were married, 62% had secondary education, and 40% were in active employment. In addition, 38% consumed medications such as corticosteroids, ASA diuretics, heparins, warfarin and thyroid hormones. Conclusions: The study revealed a frequency of osteoporosis in postmenopausal women similar to other reports. Risk factors such as alcohol consumption, smoking and medication use were identified. These findings underscore the importance of addressing risk factors for the prevention and effective management of postmenopausal osteoporosis.