A new research shows that one-in-two Australians aged over 40 (53%) are worried about developing weak and brittle bones yet the majority are failing to take steps to protect their bones.

A further 81 percent do not realise osteoporosis can be life-threatening, according to new findings released by Osteoporosis Australia. Osteoporosis Australia is urging men and women of all ages to take action now to minimise their future risk of developing osteoporosis.

Osteoporosis Australia CEO Naseema Sparks said: "Most Australians have high expectations for the future. We expect to lead active and independent lifestyles, yet this is not possible without strong, healthy bones."

"All Australians need to make bone health a priority - this applies to younger men and women, in their 30s and 40s, who are also vulnerable to bone loss."

While a vast majority of people surveyed are worried about developing osteoporosis, most are not taking preventative measures:

  • 81 percent understand that a lack of calcium plays a role in osteoporosis - but only 25 percent make a conscious effort to include calcium in their diet
  • 64 percent admit they could be more active, describing current exercise levels as poor or very poor .
  • 69 percent have not had a bone density scan - the only accurate test to assess bone density and the risk of developing osteoporosis.

"This research demonstrates that awareness of osteoporosis is high in people over 40, with the vast majority understanding that the disease can cause bones to break (83%). But awareness is low in terms of how to keep bones healthy and in fact prevention should start at a much earlier age," Ms. Sparks said.

The research was conducted online with a representative sample (residential location, age group and household income) of over 650 Australian men and women aged between 40 and 75 years of age. The research was structured to capture respondents with and without osteoporosis.

In Australia, osteoporosis is a major public health problem affecting approximately two million men and women. Osteoporosis is an expensive disease, costing $1.9 billion per annum in direct health cost - including surgery, hospital stays, rehabilitation and home care.

More than 40 people break their hip every day. Almost all of these people will be admitted to hospital: two will die in hospital, and at least four will need to go into a nursing home. About 50 per cent of people with one osteoporotic fracture will have another, and the risk of future fractures rises with each new fracture ("the cascade effect?).

Any bone in the body can be affected by osteoporosis, however, fractures mostly occur in the hip, spine and wrist and can lead to long-lasting pain, reduced mobility and loss of independence.

Disclaimer: The article is lifted from a press release by Osteoporosis Australia.