The National Osteoporosis Foundation of South Africa (NOFSA) is proud to join the global community in celebrating World Osteoporosis Day on October 20th, 2023. This year’s theme, “Building Better Bones,” underscores the importance of bone health and encourages individuals to take action to prevent osteoporosis and fragility fractures. Together, our vision is a world without fragility fractures in which healthy mobility is a reality for all.
Osteoporosis is a silent epidemic affecting millions of people worldwide, with a particularly high prevalence among the elderly population. Fragility fractures, which are fractures that occur because of minimal trauma or stress on weakened bones, can lead to a significant decrease in quality of life, independence, and even mortality. However, with early detection, prevention, and proper management, we can reduce the burden of osteoporosis and fragility fractures.
This World Osteoporosis Day, NOFSA is committed to raising awareness about the importance of building and maintaining strong bones throughout life. By emphasising lifestyle choices such as a balanced diet rich in calcium and vitamin D, regular weight-bearing exercise, and avoiding harmful habits like smoking and excessive alcohol consumption, we can empower individuals to take control of their bone health.
- In line with the global theme of “Building Better Bones,” NOFSA will launch a social media campaign with educational videos aimed at educating the public about osteoporosis prevention and management.
- NOFSA also encourages people to do their FREE online risk assessment to determine whether they might have osteoporosis and to book a bone density screening or DXA scan at their nearest doctor.
- We continue to engage with communities and healthcare professionals to encourage a collaborative effort in the fight against osteoporosis.
- As NPO, NOFSA is constantly fundraising to support research, education, and advocacy programs aimed at reducing fragility fractures in South Africa.
Tereza Hough, CEO of NOFSA, stated, “This World Osteoporosis Day, we are determined to make a difference in the lives of individuals at risk of osteoporosis and fragility fractures. Our vision is a world without fragility fractures, where healthy mobility is a reality for all. Together, we can take steps towards achieving this goal by promoting bone health awareness and encouraging preventive measures.”
NOFSA invites individuals, healthcare professionals, and organisations to join us in raising awareness about osteoporosis, its prevention, and the importance of building better bones. By coming together, we can create a world where fragility fractures are rare, and healthy mobility is a universal reality.
For more information about World Osteoporosis Day events and activities organized by NOFSA, please visit www.osteoporosis.org.za
About The National Osteoporosis Foundation of South Africa (NOFSA):
The National Osteoporosis Foundation of South Africa (NOFSA) is the only non-profit organisation dedicated to improving bone health and preventing osteoporosis and fragility fractures in South Africa. NOFSA works tirelessly to raise awareness, provide education, support research, and advocate for policies that promote bone health and reduce the burden of osteoporosis.
Contact Drienie Janse van Rensburg at [email protected] or 0861 102 265
