October 18 marks World Menopause Day, followed by World Osteoporosis Day on October 20. The National Health Insurance Administration (NHIA) reminds the public that hormonal changes following menopause can accelerate bone loss. Loss of height, worsening hunchback, and lower-back pain may all be warning signs of osteoporosis. These signs highlight the importance of paying attention to bone health early on.
NHIA Director-General Lian-Yu Chen stated that, according to the Taiwanese Osteoporosis Association, one in three women and one in five men in Taiwan have osteoporosis. The risk of a subsequent fracture after an osteoporosis-related fracture can be as high as 50%. Patients who suffer fractures may require wheelchairs or crutches, or even become bedridden, significantly increasing the risk of disability and mortality. To safeguard the public's bone health, the NHI program now covers bone mineral density examination and has expanded coverage for osteoporosis medications for patients who meet specific eligibility criteria.
Osteoporosis is a silent killer: Postmenopausal women should seek early assessment and treatment
Osteoporosis often develops without noticeable symptoms in its early stages. People at higher risk, including postmenopausal women, individuals with a history of fractures, and those on long-term steroid therapy, should seek medical evaluation and treatment as early as possible. The NHIA continues to expand and improve NHI coverage for bone mineral density examinations and osteoporosis medications to support early diagnosis and timely treatment among postmenopausal women and other high-risk groups. This helps reduce the risk of fractures and prevent subsequent fractures.
First Line of Protection: Dual-Energy X-ray Absorptiometry (DXA) Covered by the NHI
To facilitate early diagnosis, the NHIA provides coverage for dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) for high-risk groups. Eligible individuals include adults aged 50 years and older, postmenopausal women, patients with non-traumatic fractures or endocrine disorders, and those receiving specific treatments for breast cancer or prostate cancer. DXA examinations are covered at intervals of at least two years, with a lifetime maximum of three examinations per person. These examinations help patients better understand their bone health and take early preventive measures to reduce the risk of fractures.
Second Line of Protection: Expanded Coverage for Osteoporosis Medications
For patients with a confirmed diagnosis of osteoporosis, the NHIA has expanded coverage for osteoporosis medications. To better align with clinical needs and international guidelines, the NHIA extended reimbursement for primary prevention in March 2025 to include patients with osteoporosis who also have diabetes or rheumatoid arthritis, or those on long-term steroid therapy. At the same time, coverage for secondary prevention was expanded to patients with a history of fractures of the hip, spine, wrist, or arm. In August 2026, the NHIA further expanded coverage for drugs containing romosozumab, making them available as first- and second-line treatments for postmenopausal women with osteoporosis who are at high risk of bone fractures. These measures help more patients receive timely treatment, reduce their risk of fractures, and maintain mobility and quality of life.
Build Bone Strength Early: NHIA Helps You Stay Active and Mobile
Osteoporosis is a serious yet often overlooked issue in an aging society. Osteoporosis-related bone fractures can significantly impact quality of life. The NHIA reminds the public that it is important to pay attention to bone health from an early age. In addition to undergoing regular bone mineral density examinations, individuals are encouraged to increase their calcium intake, engage in regular weight-bearing exercise, and get moderate sun exposure. As women experience physiological changes during menopause, their family and friends are encouraged to pay closer attention to their physical and mental well-being. High-risk groups are encouraged to seek medical consultation and make full use of the NHI benefits. Together, we can strengthen bone health and help women maintain good health and enjoy a high quality of life well beyond menopause.
In addition to providing NHI coverage, NHIA Director-General Lian-Yu Chen collaborated with Dr. Ta-Wei Tai of National Cheng Kung University Hospital's Department of Orthopedics to produce an educational video on osteoporosis. For more information, please visit the NHIA's official YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T6kxM9iPXts