Abstract
BACKGROUND: Osteoporosis, a systemic skeletal disorder characterized by reduced bone mineral density (BMD) and micro-architectural deterioration, significantly increases fracture risk. Postmenopausal women are particularly susceptible due to estrogen deficiency, which accelerates bone resorption. This study evaluates the clinical manifestations and quality of life (QoL) of Vietnamese women with severe postmenopausal osteoporosis using the Quality of Life Questionnaire of the European Foundation for Osteoporosis (Qualeffo-41). METHODS: A cross-sectional study was conducted from February to May 2023 at Nghe An Friendship General Hospital, Vietnam. Seventy-one postmenopausal women aged 48-94 years with severe osteoporosis (BMD T-score ≤ -2.5 SD and history of fracture) were included. Exclusion criteria encompassed secondary osteoporosis, invasive procedures, and the inability to complete the questionnaire. Clinical data and QoL were assessed using the Vietnamese version of the Qualeffo-41 questionnaire. RESULTS: Participants had an average age of 70 years and an average BMI of 19.99 ± 2.80 kg/m(2). The mean menopause age was 47.18 ± 3.97 years, with an average of 23.48 ± 8.79 years since menopause. Fractures were primarily reported at the lumbar spine (97.2%) and femoral neck (57.8%), with an average T-score of -3.67 ± 0.76 SD and -2.69 ± 1.01 SD, respectively. The most common symptom was bone pain (47.9%). QoL scores revealed the lowest domain as body function (85.09 ± 14.49), while general health perception was the highest. Women with fractures reported significantly lower QoL compared to those without. Regression analysis indicated significant associations between overall Qualeffo-41 scores and the number of fractures (β = 12.296) and lumbar spine T-scores (β = -8.208, p < 0.05). CONCLUSION: This study underscores the substantial impact of severe osteoporosis on QoL in Vietnamese postmenopausal women, emphasizing the critical role of fracture prevention and BMD management. Future research should explore targeted interventions to mitigate these burdens and enhance patient outcomes.