New strategy from the ROS intends to finally break the silence on osteoporosis

The Royal Osteoporosis Society (ROS) has today announced a major milestone with the launch of an ambitious new four-year strategy, Breaking the Silence.

The new strategy comes as a response to record demand for support services during the pandemic amid an escalating public health crisis. Half of women and a fifth of men over 50 will suffer a fracture (broken bone) because of osteoporosis. There are over half a million fractures every year because of the condition, costing the NHS £4.6bn annually. As many people die from fracture-related causes as from diabetes and lung cancer.

Osteoporosis is treatable and fractures preventable. With an early diagnosis and the right treatment plan, people affected can live well, thanks to safe, effective medication that’s highly affordable for the NHS.

With this new strategy, the ROS will be committing to raise awareness and inspire action among the public and policy-makers, demanding change for the millions of people living with osteoporosis. Investment in research and influencing will be aimed at closing the treatment gap, alongside an advertising campaign to warn people at high risk. Meanwhile, investment in digital support services will help more people than ever to live well with osteoporosis.

Craig Jones, Chief Executive of the Royal Osteoporosis Society said:

“Osteoporosis is one of the most urgent public health crises of the modern era. The pandemic has widened the treatment gap to eye-watering levels, meaning action is now beyond the point of urgency. Our new strategy will put bone health at the top of the public health agenda and keep it there, while transforming the culture around osteoporosis from passivity to determination.

“We want to seize the moment and beat osteoporosis together. If we succeed, we can transform the experience of later life in this country.”

Read Breaking the Silence and follow @royalosteosoc on social media for regular updates on our work.