Statistics on Hip Replacement and Knee Cap Surgery at Government Hospitals

Er Dr Lee Bee Wah asked the Minister for Health (a) in the past 10 years, how many people above 50 years old have undergone hip replacement and knee cap surgery at Government hospitals; (b) how many people between 30 and 49 years old have undergone hip replacement and knee cap surgery at Government hospitals; (c) what are the common causes for such bone and cartilage injuries; and (d) what can be done to educate the population so that preventive measures can be taken.

From 2004 to 2013, there were 9,174 and 18,289 persons above 50 years of age who underwent hip and knee replacement surgeries respectively at public hospitals. Over the same period, 526 and 426 persons aged 30 to 49 years underwent hip and knee replacement surgeries respectively at public hospitals.

Common bone and cartilage conditions requiring joint replacement surgeries are hip fractures and osteoarthritis of the hip and knee joints. Fractures of hip joints are more common in the elderly and post-menopausal women due to thinning of bone structures (osteoporosis). Elderly patients are also at a higher risk of suffering fractures from falls. Osteoarthritis is more commonly observed in persons who are of advanced age, are overweight and/or have had previous joint injuries.

MOH and HPB have several programmes to promote healthy living in the community and minimise the risk of developing bone and cartilage conditions. For example, "Lose to Win" is a structured programme to lose weight and to prevent obesity; STEP (Strength Training Exercise Programme), aims to prevent falls by improving the physical function of older adults; and OPTIMAL (Osteoporosis Patient Targeted and Integrated Management for Active Living Programme) to encourage our elderly to lead an active lifestyle.

MOH and HPB will continue to partner various communities to educate our population on fall prevention and encourage healthy living.