Osteoporosis is 'silent epidemic' putting strain on NHS resources
MILLIONS are living with long-term pain from devastating osteoporosis, a shocking report reveals.
The “silent epidemic” of the brittle bone disease is taking a terrible toll on the health of millions – and on the finances of the NHS.
Our report highlights the impact osteoporosis has on every aspect of people’s lives
There are three million sufferers in Britain with the crippling condition.
And 42 per cent of those who have had fractures put up with sustained pain that they think will never go, says a National Osteoporosis Society study. This rises to 58 per cent with those who have had spinal fractures.
One in four people who were of working age at diagnosis has had to give up work, change their job or reduce their hours and 42 per cent feel socially isolated.
Research shows many are unwilling, or embarrassed, to talk about osteoporosis.
Claire Severgnini, NOS chief executive, said: “Our report highlights the impact osteoporosis has on every aspect of people’s lives.”
