Lack of public awareness about bone health in the UK

A poor understanding of bone health and how to reduce the risk of osteoporosis exists in the UK according to a recent poll of 1,000 women.

The survey of women aged 25 to 65 years shows that 96% had no idea how much calcium or vitamin D is needed in a weekly diet to help protect bone health.

Half of respondents had no idea that osteoporosis is associated with menopause. About 70% of participants said they do not eat enough oily fish to keep their bones and joints in optimal health. Less than 20% took supplements for their bones, relying on their diet without understanding what they needed to eat.

The lack of oestrogen during menopause enables the development of osteoporosis.

“There is a general poor level of awareness of osteoporosis among both patients and medics,” says a spokesperson from Arthritis Research UK. “Research has shown that less than half of osteoporosis patients take calcium and vitamin D alongside their drug treatment, which is essential in order to get the maximum health benefit.

“Greater awareness of the condition, and of the fact that there are a number of very effective drugs available to treat it, is essential to prevent unnecessary fractures.”