Department of Radiological Imaging Technologies Students Conduct an Awareness Campaign on Bone Health and the Early Detection of Osteoporosis at Al-Qadmous International Schools
On Thursday, October 22, 2026, fourth-year students from the Department of Radiological Imaging Technologies at Cihan University–Erbil conducted an awareness campaign on bone health and the early detection of osteoporosis at Al-Qadmous International Schools in Erbil, under the supervision of Assistant Lecturer Reem Jarallah Abdulhafidh. The students were received by the school principal, Mrs. Reem Moshi.
Student Masar Jabbar Mhalhal opened the campaign by introducing the pupils to the structure and functions of bones and explaining osteoporosis, including how it weakens bones and increases the risk of fractures.
Student Helen Akram Elias addressed the risk factors associated with the disease, including limited sun exposure, calcium and vitamin D deficiencies, physical inactivity, and smoking. She also explained that postmenopausal women and older adults are among the groups most at risk.
Student Hind Saddam Khalid discussed preventive measures, stressing that youth is a crucial period for building bone mass. She also explained the importance of a diet rich in calcium and vitamin D, moderate sun exposure, and regular exercise.
Student Marwa Mohammed Abubaker explained the role of radiological imaging in diagnosing osteoporosis. She noted that dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) can detect reduced bone density before fractures occur and that the examination is quick, painless, and involves a low radiation dose. She also clarified the role of X-rays in identifying fractures.
Student Maryam Nihad Mohammed concluded the presentations by highlighting the importance of regular check-ups and early disease detection, including the early detection of breast cancer. She also explained the role of radiographers in this field.
The campaign concluded with an interactive question-and-answer session, during which the pupils asked questions about foods that promote bone health, when to undergo bone density examinations, and the safety of DEXA scans. The participating students provided detailed answers to their questions.
