Skeletal health isn’t a new issue, and the number of people affected hasn’t suddenly changed. What has shifted is the level of attention it’s receiving. Much like many other health topics we’ve explored recently, osteoporosis has long disproportionately affected women, yet awareness, education, and investment in better diagnosis and treatment have lagged. Now, there is a growing recognition of the need to address conditions that predominantly impact women, alongside increased demand for accessible information and improved care pathways.
There are several compelling reasons why skeletal health deserves this renewed focus. Firstly, its prevalence is high: around half of women and one in five men over 50 are affected by osteoporosis, while falls impact one-third of people over 65 and half of those over 80 each year.
Secondly, the consequences can be severe. Falls are the leading cause of injury-related deaths among older adults, and between 20–27% of people over 65 who experience a fall die within a year, rising to over 30% in cases involving hip fractures.
Thirdly, an ageing population means more people are at risk; women, who on average live longer than men, are particularly affected, placing increasing pressure on healthcare systems and the wider economy. Finally, lifestyle plays a significant role in risk — encouragingly, this means there are practical, cost-effective ways to reduce it. Simple changes such as improving nutrition, increasing physical activity, and supporting bone health early can make a meaningful difference, benefiting not only skeletal health but overall wellbeing.
Further resources:
A David Lloyd Clubs Webinar Conversation with Dr Vonda and Dr Zoe Williams – Unbreakable – looking after your bones through all stages of life:
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