Osteoporosis: the patient’s perspective

Author(s): C. Severgnini - Pages: 50–55

Abstract

Osteoporosis and fragility fractures are a significant health problem. In the UK, 3 million people are estimated to have osteoporosis, and there are approximately 300 000 fragility fractures every year. One in two women and one in five men over the age of 50 years will break a bone, which robs these people of their independence, mobility and quality of life. The National Osteoporosis Society (NOS) is the only UK-wide charity dedicated to improving the diagnosis, prevention and treatment of osteoporosis and fragility fractures. It ensures that support and information are available for everyone who has been diagnosed with osteoporosis, those who have had a fracture, and those who are worried about themselves or their loved ones. The NOS also provides a wide range of services that are designed to help people learn how to prevent osteoporosis, or to manage living with the disease and fractures, and it supports health professionals in providing better care for their patients.

Keywords: fragility fracture, National Osteoporosis Society, osteoporosis, patient perspective, support.