World Osteoporosis Day (WOD), observed annually on October 20, is a global event dedicated to raising awareness about the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of osteoporosis and other metabolic bone diseases.
For 2024, worldosteoporosisday.org has launched a new campaign called “Say No to Fragile Bones.” It highlights the importance of early action in preserving bone health.
The campaign’s website has resources aiming to inspire individuals to take proactive steps to prevent osteoporosis and reduce the risk of fractures, emphasizing the long-term benefits of maintaining bone strength.
The International Osteoporosis Foundation (IOF), which leads the World Osteoporosis Day 2024 campaign, partners with healthcare organizations, governments and patient advocacy groups worldwide to promote bone health. These collaborations involve educational initiatives, public health campaigns and community events aimed at spreading awareness about osteoporosis prevention and management.
Throughout October, events such as free bone density tests, educational seminars, social media campaigns and awareness drives will be organized across the globe.
Osteoporosis Facts and Figures
Globally, it is estimated that over 200 million people are affected by osteoporosis.
The condition is particularly prevalent among postmenopausal women and the elderly, with approximately one in three women and one in five men over the age of 50 expected to experience an osteoporotic fracture in their lifetime.
As the global population continues to age, the number of people affected by osteoporosis is expected to rise, making it a growing public health concern.
Despite the high prevalence, osteoporosis remains underdiagnosed and undertreated, partly because people often overlook bone health until significant problems arise.
Fractures caused by osteoporosis have a devastating effect on millions of lives globally, leading to significant socio-economic costs for both society and healthcare systems. Despite advancements in medical treatments that can effectively reduce fractures, only a small percentage of men and women receive appropriate care.
In fact, just 20 percent of patients who suffer osteoporotic fractures are diagnosed or treated for the underlying condition.
World Osteoporosis Day 2024: Maintaining Bone Health
The goal of World Osteoporosis Day is to bridge the awareness gap by encouraging people to understand their risk factors and take preventive measures. Here are some ways you can keep an eye on your bone health:
- Know your risk: Certain factors increase the risk of osteoporosis, including age, family history, menopause, certain medications and lifestyle choices like smoking, excessive alcohol consumption and lack of physical activity.
- Get a bone health check: Early detection of osteoporosis through bone density testing (DXA scans) is critical. Regular check-ups can help identify bone loss early, allowing for timely intervention.
- Adopt a bone-healthy lifestyle: A diet rich in calcium and vitamin D, along with regular weight-bearing exercise, is essential to maintaining strong bones. Avoiding smoking and limiting alcohol consumption also plays a crucial role.
- Prevent fractures: Individuals already diagnosed with osteoporosis must take steps to prevent fractures, including modifying their home environment to reduce the risk of falls and discussing treatment options with their healthcare provider.
World Osteoporosis Day 2024 is an opportunity for individuals, healthcare providers and policymakers to come together and advocate for bone health. By promoting early diagnosis, encouraging healthy lifestyle changes and making treatment accessible, the long-term impact of osteoporosis can be reduced, improving the quality of life for millions of people.
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