Osteoporosis in the European Union in 2008:
Ten years of progress and ongoing challenges
Download report (PDF, 2.17 MB)
This report, published in October 2008, provides a snapshot of the progress and challenges in osteoporosis management in the EU - a decade after the landmark 1998 report and recommendations by the European Commission and as a comparison to the 2001 EU 'audit' report.
Scientists, physicians, policymakers, advocates, patients and their families are urged to use the report to identify issues that need attention in their countries.
Based on country reports submitted by the EU Osteoporosis Consultation Panel, the report shows some progress:
• Shorter waiting times for bone mineral density testing has been achieved in many countries, resulting in more efficient diagnosis and treatment;
• A wide range of proven treatments is now available.
However, ongoing challenges continue:
• Only 6 of 27 EU governments have declared osteoporosis a healthcare priority;
• Hip fracture costs have doubled or tripled in several countries over 10 years;
• More than 40% of EU members states have fewer than the recommended number of bone mineral density scanners;
• Full reimbursement for these scans is provided in only 9 of 27 member states;
• Osteoporosis is part of national public health programs in only 10 of 27 countries.
See press release issued at the launch of the report in Brussels on October 14, 2008
