IOF Applauds National Osteoporosis Society On Nice Guidance Appeal Success And Urges Continued Efforts

The International Osteoporosis Foundation (IOF) has applauded the appeal success of the National Osteoporosis Society (NOS), in the matter of the National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence's (NICE) Guidance for the primary and secondary prevention of osteoporotic fracture, and has called for continuing efforts to ensure that clinically appropriate and scientifically robust Guidance is made available.


As an umbrella organization representing more than 180 patient and medical societies worldwide, IOF is concerned that patients receive the care they deserve. "The NICE decision means going back to the table and working together to come up with revised Guidance that provides for a range of effective treatments," said IOF President Professor Pierre D. Delmas.


The original NICE Guidance named alendronate as the only drug that UK Primary Care Trusts (PCTs) must make available to patients. Moreover treatment was denied to all but those at the highest risk. Whilst cost-effective, alendronate is not suitable for all patients.


Professor Delmas added, "The International Osteoporosis Foundation joins the NOS's call for more osteoporosis treatments to be included within the NICE Guidance and for the Guidance to be less restrictive so that patients who should be prescribed an appropriate treatment to protect against future fracture receive that treatment."


Osteoporosis, in which the bones become porous and break easily, is one of the world's most common and debilitating diseases. The result: pain, loss of movement, inability to perform daily chores, and in many cases, death. One out of three women over 50 will experience osteoporotic fractures, as will one out of five men 3,4,5. Unfortunately, screening for people at risk is far from being a standard practice. Osteoporosis can, to a certain extent, be prevented, it can be easily diagnosed and effective treatments are available.


The International Osteoporosis Foundation (IOF) is the only worldwide organization dedicated to the fight against osteoporosis. It brings together scientists, physicians, patient societies and corporate partners. Working with its 182 member societies in 88 locations, and other healthcare-related organizations around the world, IOF encourages awareness and prevention, early detection and improved treatment of osteoporosis.


References


1. Melton U, Chrischilles EA, Cooper C et al. How many women have osteoporosis? Journal of Bone Mineral Research, 1992; 7:1005-10


2. Kanis JA et al. Long-term risk of osteoporotic fracture in Malmo. Osteoporosis International, 2000; 11:669-674


3. Melton LJ, et al. Bone density and fracture risk in men. JBMR. 1998; 13:No 12:1915


International Osteoporosis Foundation