The Organization
The International Osteoporosis Foundation (IOF), registered as a not-for-profit, non-governmental foundation in Switzerland, functions as a global alliance of patient, medical and research societies, scientists, health care professionals, and international companies concerned about bone health.
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IOF headquarters are in Nyon, Switzerland, with regional representations established in Argentina, Hong Kong-China, and Jordan The Foundation was established in 1998, when the European Foundation for Osteoporosis (EFFO), founded in 1987, joined with the International Federation of Societies on Skeletal Diseases (IFSSD, established 1995) . |
Structure
IOF is comprised of three committees:
- Committee of 194 National Societies in 92 locations (countries, territories or regions)
- Committee of Scientific Advisors comprising 95 members
- Committee of Corporate Advisors representing 33 companies
The Board of Governance includes 21 elected members from six regions of the world as well as ex-officio members.
The Board and the three membership committees meet twice a year at IOF business meetings. An Executive Committee meets on a regular basis and delegates day-to-day responsibility to the CEO who manages the Staff.
The IOF organizes its programs, projects and activities within five areas: IOF Programs in science, the IOF family, policy, outreach and education and administration and finance.
IOF Regional Programme
The IOF Regional Programme is a long-term plan for the development of the five IOF Regions. It aims to develop a strong regional structure based on collaboration among the member associations and to help the regions acquire the resources they need to improve their ability to help IOF CNS members. The Programme is vital to the dynamic growth of IOF and its progress will lead to the strengthening of osteoporosis associations worldwide.
The five IOF Regions are as follows:
- Asia Pacific (AsPac)
- Middle East and Africa (MEAf)
- North America (NA)
- Latin America (LA)
- Europe (Eu)
Click here for more on the IOF Regionals programme.


