The Great British Bone Check launches today so millions can check their risk of silent killer

Palace-backed initiative aims to get 3 million Brits to check their risk of poor bone health and prevent life-threatening breaks.

Breaks caused by osteoporosis are the fourth worst cause of disability and premature death – but 79% take no action.

Half of women aged over 50 will suffer life-threatening broken bones due to osteoporosis, as well as a fifth of men. The condition causes bones to break after coughs, sneezes and stumbles, and a broken hip can lead to early death.  

But new research published today shows chronically low awareness of the life-threatening consequences of this disease.  

The Royal Osteoporosis Society is launching The Great British Bone Check, a national campaign to strengthen the nation’s bones, coinciding with World Osteoporosis Day (20 October), with a digital tool that can help users assess their bone health in three minutes.   

With the support and encouragement of Her Majesty The Queen, whose mother and grandmother both suffered terribly with osteoporosis, the charity aims to risk-check three million people so they can get timely access to diagnosis and treatment.  

New research from YouGov shows how this silent killer could be hiding in plain sight: 

• Almost 8 in 10 UK adults (79%) have never checked their bone health – including three-quarters of women, who face the greatest risk  

• Half (49%) of adults do not know that women are more likely to break a bone after the menopause 

• 76% of UK adults do not realise they’re at greater risk of breaking a bone if their biological parent suffered a broken hip 

• 79% agree “losing a few inches in height is a normal part of ageing”, whereas it could be an effect of broken bones in the spine – a precursor to a potentially deadly broken hip 

• Less than half (44%) of UK adults realise osteoporosis can lead to life-threatening complications 

• 82% of UK adults do not do enough exercise (moderate-impact at least 4 days per week) to keep their bones strong  

• More than a third (36%) say they NEVER take part in exercise, with women (33%) even less likely than men to act 

• More than 4 in 10 adults (43%) do not take vitamin D supplements in autumn and winter, which could protect their bones - despite recommendation from experts 

The number of bones broken by osteoporosis is set to sky-rocket as the population ages. The end result of untreated osteoporosis can be a broken hip, after which over a quarter of sufferers die within just 12 months, with 80% left needing help with basic daily activities. 

Osteoporosis is more common in women due to bones losing their strength at a faster rate after the menopause. This is due to the reduction in oestrogen, which helps to keep bone density stable. As there are no symptoms of osteoporosis until a broken bone occurs, it is sometimes referred to as the ‘silent’ condition, and many people don’t realise they’re at risk until it’s too late. 

The Great British Bone Check is a free online tool which takes less than three minutes to use, helping people to spot osteoporosis risk factors early and empowering them to take action to protect their future. An early diagnosis means that broken bones can be avoided through lifestyle changes, such as increasing weight-bearing impact exercise and eating a balanced diet, or anti-osteoporosis drugs if deemed necessary by a medical professional. 

The campaign is backed by leading household names, including David Lloyd Clubs and AXA Health insurance, together with Mumsnet, one of the UK’s most popular websites, and Good Food, the nation’s favourite food media brand.  

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

“Poor bone health is one of the most urgent threats to people living well in later life. For older people, broken bones cause isolation, chronic pain and misery, as well as shortening lives for many. Low awareness is masking an invisible threat to millions.  

“The Great British Bone Check is a rallying call to the nation to treat bone health just as seriously as heart, eye, lung, mental and dental health. With an early warning, people can get access to treatment which will prevent breaks and give them back the future they deserve”.  

Justine Roberts, Founder and Executive Chair of Mumsnet, said: 

“We’re very proud to be supporting this campaign. At Mumsnet we recognise the importance of having access to clear health information, and the Great British Bone Check will help the nation to identify their risk of breaking a bone, in a matter of minutes. 

“Osteoporosis affects millions of women throughout the UK, and it’s vital that we’re all aware of our bone health and the devastation that osteoporosis can bring.” 

GP and medical broadcaster, Dr Sarah Jarvis MBE, said: 

“There are a wide range of easy changes we can make to protect our bones. The trouble is, you'll only know to take action if you’re aware of your risk. The Great British Bone Check will help all of us to take ownership of our health and prevent avoidable breaks, before it’s too late.” 

To take the Great British Bone Check tool, visit: thegreatbritishbonecheck.org.uk