Australia is facing a significant public health crisis as the number of individuals living with osteopenia and osteoporosis continues to rise. A recent report reveals that a fracture occurs every 30 seconds, highlighting the urgent need for enhanced preventive measures and treatment strategies.
Healthy Bones Australia has released a comprehensive analysis projecting that by 2033, approximately 7.7 million Australians will be affected by these conditions, representing a 34% increase from previous figures. This alarming trend is expected to impose a staggering economic burden, with costs escalating from $4.8 billion in 2023 to an estimated $8.3 billion within the next decade.
On Thursday, key stakeholders, including politicians, patients, and healthcare professionals, gathered at Parliament House in Canberra to discuss the findings of the report, titled “Osteoporosis and Fractures in Australia: A Burden of Disease Analysis 2023–33.” The organization aims to leverage this data to urge the Federal Government to prioritize preventive health measures.
The report indicates that 67% of Australians aged over 50—approximately 6.2 million people—are currently living with poor bone health, with 77% suffering from osteopenia and 23% diagnosed with osteoporosis. These numbers are projected to rise by 23% over the next ten years, further exacerbating the crisis.
Professor Peter Ebeling, Chair of Healthy Bones Australia, emphasized the need for immediate action. “Currently, more than two-in-three Australians over 50 years of age are living with poor bone health,” he stated. “Moreover, a staggering 2.1 million fractures due to osteoporosis are estimated to occur over the next decade—one fracture every 30 seconds by 2033.”
If the current trajectory of management strategies continues, the total cost associated with osteopenia and osteoporosis could soar to an estimated $67.9 billion in the next decade. “While extremely concerning, this situation can be prevented if we take action now by investing in our population’s bone health,” Professor Ebeling urged.
Professor Peter Wong, Medical Director at Healthy Bones Australia, highlighted the report’s role in raising awareness among healthcare providers. He stated, “We’re using this analysis to call for more funding from the Government and greater support for healthcare professionals.”
Wong also underscored the crucial role general practitioners (GPs) play in addressing chronic diseases, particularly osteoporosis. “Every healthcare professional who deals with individuals with poor bone health needs to be aware of this condition,” he stressed, advocating for earlier investigations through bone mineral density testing and the implementation of medical and lifestyle interventions to mitigate preventable fractures.
In collaboration with Healthy Bones Australia, the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP) has updated national guidelines for managing osteoporosis, incorporating new treatment options. Professor Wong encouraged GPs to utilize this user-friendly guide, stating, “The field has changed, and new drugs are now available, so it’s essential for GPs to leverage these resources in their practice.”
As Australia confronts this growing public health issue, the urgent call for enhanced awareness and proactive management of osteoporosis is more critical than ever.
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