Bone disease numbers on the rise

Media Release
16 October 2011

Bone disease numbers on the rise

A study1 involving over a million Kiwis reveals that the bone disease osteoporosis - although entirely preventable - is expected to cost New Zealand almost half a billion dollars every year after 2020.

The authors of the major study on the economic burden of the disease say its impact is already far greater man many high profile conditions, including breast and prostate cancers. Currently more than 1.2 million Kiwis suffer from osteoporosis, and it’s costing well over $330m every year.

This week sees Osteoporosis New Zealand celebrate ‘Better Bones Week’, and Chair of the national organisation Jennifer Button is calling on all New Zealanders to know and learn a little more about the disease.

“Realistically we can improve significantly the quality of life of hundreds of thousands of Kiwis and reduce a huge economic cost that is falling on all of us.

“With our ageing population, we expect the cost for treatment and care of osteoporosis to rise significantly, and we urge all Kiwis to look after their bones, no matter what age.”

Ms Button says that the common misconception is that it only applies to the elderly, whereas families are especially important in creating a lifetime of strong bones.

“Simple steps such as calcium intake, weight bearing exercise and vitamin D through sensible doses of sunshine can be incorporated into the daily routine to prevent getting the disease. Parents, especially mothers are in a great position to instil these values into their children from an early age.”

Osteoporosis, meaning ‘porous bone’ affects nearly one third of all men, and one in every two women over the age of 60 in New Zealand. Bone density scans are available to those who want an insight into what stage their bones are in currently.

For more information visit www.bones.org.nz

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