9 out of 10 Hongkongers experience spinal problems but only a third will seek help: survey
Survey by Hong Kong Sanatorium and Hospital reflects ageing population’s growing need for early diagnosis and treatment, institution’s doctors say
Experts of the Hong Kong Sanatorium and Hospital on Monday called on residents to avoid a sedentary lifestyle to reduce the risks of spinal pain, and urged them to see a doctor if their condition persisted so they could be diagnosed and treated as soon as possible.
The survey of 800 Hongkongers aged 18 or above, conducted over August and September, found 87 per cent of respondents experienced spinal pain in the past year but only 30 per cent would see a doctor.
Dr Stephen Wu Wing-cheung, head of the hospital’s orthopaedics and traumatology department, said the increasing prevalence of spinal problems was not unique to Hong Kong, but warned that back conditions could inflict a heavy toll on the city’s ageing population.
“Spinal problems have become increasingly common in recent years, some [people] got neck pain from using smartphones too much, and some got other conditions because they didn’t pay attention while working out,” he said.
“The most important factor behind this trend is the ageing population. As people grow old, a lot of health problems could emerge, but spinal problems often outweigh others.”