Outreach and Education

Public awareness and education is the focus of many of IOF's programs and projects.

Through these activities, and its support to members at the national level, IOF helps raise awareness and improve knowledge about osteoporosis among the public, health professionals and policy makers.

Media outreach is carried out through an active news service with press releases issued regularly to the international media, advertising campaigns, and, most importantly, through an annual World Osteoporosis Day (WOD). IOF supports this global campaign by issuing educational publications such as the Invest in Your Bones series, creating poster artwork for members, and carrying out special events.

World Osteoporosis Day (WOD) is a focal point for osteoporosis outreach. Above WOD event in Singapore

WOD event in Thailand

Numerous educational grants are offered to IOF members, including the IOF Linda Edwards Memorial Award every two years – an award that honors a young osteoporosis patient society which has shown exceptional dynamic and effectiveness.

The IOF Osteoporosis Journalism Award, given to journalists from around the world, is designed to encourage journalistic efforts to educate the public and health care professionals about osteoporosis and communicate the importance of investing in better bone health.

An important source of information on osteoporosis for the public, health professionals and the media is the IOF website. Newly revised in October 2006, the website has grown considerably in terms of scope, visitors and hits since its launch in 1999.