Virtual 2021 IOS conference a great success

The Irish Osteoporosis Society (IOS) 2021 Annual Medical Conference for Health Professionals took place online on 23 October and featured a stellar line up of expert speakers discussing the latest prevention, diagnosis and treatment strategies for this common disease.

There was also a very uplifting presentation from Prof Jim Lucey, Clinical Professor of Psychiatry at Trinity College, Dublin, and Consultant Psychiatrist at St Patrick’s University Hospital, based on his new book, A whole new plan for living: Achieving balance and wellness in a challenging world. Prof Lucey discussed strategies for improving wellbeing, self-care, and stress management, with an emphasis on being mindful – to stay focussed, and flexible – to deal with change.

Speaking to the Medical Independent, President of the IOS Prof Moira O’Brien said: “We were delighted with the turnout, especially for a Saturday. The highlights were the take-home messages of the importance of screening people for risk factors for bone loss as only 19 per cent are diagnosed, and monitoring patients is essential. A DXA scan result is only part of the clinical evaluation to determine the most effective treatment for an individual and in an ideal world vitamin D levels would be taken annually, especially in senior citizens.”