European Union Policy Initiatives

In the European Union (EU), someone has an osteoporotic fracture every 30 seconds [1]. With an ageing population, the incidence of hip fracture in the EU is expected to double over the next 50 years [1].

Osteoporotic fractures are responsible for a higher disease burden, in terms of disability and mortality, than common cancers with the exception of lung cancer [2].

Unless the prevention and treatment of osteoporosis and related bone, muscle and joint disorders becomes a priority for governments and healthcare providers, this growing number of fractures will have a serious impact on society, not just in terms of quality of life, but also the increased expenditure for healthcare, rehabilitation and nursing care.

NEW on April 17, 2013

• Osteoporosis in the European Union: Medical Management, Epidemiology and Economic Burden

• SCOPE - ScoreCard for Osteoporosis in Europe

Also new in 2013: European Guidance for the Diagnosis & Management of Osteoporosis in Postmenopausal Women

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