17 July 2023
Arthritis Action is proud to support the Better Bones campaign which was recently launched by the Royal Osteoporosis Society (ROS).
Background
Osteoporosis is one of the most urgent threats to people living well in later life. Fractures caused by osteoporosis affect half of women over 50, and a fifth of men, are the fourth most consequential health condition, and are preventable with safe, effective therapies which are highly affordable for the NHS.
The main cause of bone density loss is family history, but existing conditions, such as inflammatory arthritis, and use of some treatments can also accelerate loss of bone.
What is the campaign?
The new campaign is calling for 100% Fracture Liaison Service (FLS) coverage across the UK, where currently only only half (51%) of NHS trusts have one. This means that 90,000 people are currently missing out on vital osteoporosis treatment and are at risk of further fractures simply because of their postcode. Many of these fractures are preventable – half of hip fracture patients had a previous fracture that could have flagged them as being at risk.
Improving coverage of FLS is a cost-effective model that requires modest investment for significant return. For every £1 spend on FLS, £3.26 is saved by the NHS.
The Better Bones campaign is calling for £30m per annum to end the current postcode lottery for fracture liaison services.
How can I help?
There are a number of ways that you can help the Royal Osteoporosis Society to achieve their goal:
- See how your area is doing on providing vital services for preventing fractures.
- Write to your MP or other elected official to ask them to raise this in Parliament.
- You can also visit the Royal Osteoporosis Society website to find out more about osteoporosis and fractures and check your risk.
If you are a healthcare professional working in bone health, make sure the government knows your views by signing the ROS’ letter in support of the campaign.