World Osteoporosis Day, held on October 20 each year, marks a year-long campaign dedicated to raising global awareness of the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of osteoporosis.
The event aims to make osteoporosis and fracture prevention a global health priority by reaching out to healthcare professionals, the media, policymakers, patients, and the public at large.
Under the headline, “Take Action For Bone Health”, the theme highlights the need to be proactive in maintaining bone health throughout life, and preventing osteoporosis and fractures through early risk assessment and treatment if needed.
The campaign will also emphasise the direct link between osteoporosis (the silent, underlying disease) and broken bones, which have a serious, life-changing impact in terms of pain, disability and lost independence.
This year’s event has identified a number of key messages:
- Osteoporosis is the underlying cause of painful, debilitating and life-threatening broken bones – known as fragility fractures.
- Osteoporosis is a growing global problem: worldwide, fractures affect one in three women and one in five men over the age of 50.
- Osteoporosis affects families – family members often bear the burden of care.
- If one of your parents had osteoporosis or hip fracture, this may increase your own risk of developing the disease. Take the IOF Osteoporosis Risk Check to identify your risk factors.
- At risk? Be sure to request a bone health assessment – take early action for prevention.
- Bone health concerns the entire family - ensure your family maintains a bone healthy lifestyle.
- Sign the IOF Global Patient Charter calling on healthcare providers to close the ‘care gap’ which leaves many patients unprotected against a cycle of disabling fractures.
More details of World Osteoporosis Day are available here.
