First Government strategy on osteoporosis

Citation

(1999), "First Government strategy on osteoporosis", Nutrition & Food Science, Vol. 99 No. 1. https://doi.org/10.1108/nfs.1999.01799aab.005

First Government strategy on osteoporosis

First Government strategy on osteoporosis

A new policy document has been set up setting targets for the management, treatment and prevention of osteoporosis for all health providers. It includes guidelines for GPs. It follows the launch of the first European Report on Osteoporosis which was launched in 1998 and called for improved action and better funding in all areas of the disease in all 15 member states. The disease is responsible for the majority of costs arising from fractures which now cost the NHS £942 million a year, yet the disease is preventable. Despite having one of the highest incidences of osteoporosis in Europe, the UK is the poorest provider of scans to diagnose the disease. Eating a balanced, calcium-rich diet, taking regular weight-bearing exercise and for women taking hormone replacement therapy at the menopause can help combat the disease. The National Osteoporosis Society is working in partnership with Boots the Chemists to provide free information booklets, You and Osteoporosis, and selling calcium-themed cartoon badges in all stores to raise vital funds for the disease.