NOFSA, the only non-profit, voluntary health organisation dedicated to promoting lifelong bone health turned 30 on 1 March 2023.
Osteoporosis is a systemic disease that causes the skeleton to become porous and brittle and leads to fractures of the forearm, spine and hip. There are currently 4 million South African men and women living with osteoporosis.
As a foundation, they focus on reducing the widespread prevalence of osteoporosis while working to find a cure for the disease, and by supporting research and development through education and advocacy to patients and doctors.
CEO, Teréza Hough, recalls when her own osteoporosis journey started while nursing 30 years ago, remembering when patients were admitted to medical centers with bones that fractured when they sneezed or bent over and could only be treated with estrogen and calcium. There are many treatment options available in South Africa today, including a fracture liaison service.
Says Hough, “The past 30 years have been such a blessed and positive journey and we hope to make an even bigger difference in the future so that testing and treatment can be made available to everyone in South Africa.”
The foundation educates and spreads awareness via its online channels including social media, webinars, mailers and its website. Membership for patients is free and practitioners can sign up for a nominal fee. As a non-profit organisation they rely on sponsorships and funding and are registered to provide a Tax Certificate under Article 18A of the Income Tax Act.
NOFSA also recently founded a support group on Facebook and welcomes anyone to join this group. Regular information is shared in the group and patients have the opportunity to ask relevant questions.
If you need support please contact their Helpline 0861 102 265 or Whatsapp 068 491 3543.
Find out more about their work at: www.osteoporosis.org.za