New research has shown that during the first year of the Labour Party’s governance, fractures resulting from osteoporosis have inflicted a financial blow of over £142 million on the British economy. Additionally, around 660,000 working days were lost due to employee sick leave, highlighting the significant impact of this health issue on the workforce.
Osteoporosis, which currently affects 3.5 million people in the UK, weakens bones and increases their vulnerability to fractures. Every year, this condition gives rise to 500,000 bone fractures across the country. Alarmingly, about half of all women and one – fifth of men over the age of 50 will experience a bone fracture due to osteoporosis.
Campaigners from the Royal Osteoporosis Society (ROS) point out that these figures, obtained from independent research commissioned by the organization, merely represent one aspect of the extensive economic burden that osteoporosis places on the UK. The ROS is now calling on Health Secretary Wes Streeting to fulfill his commitment to enhance osteoporosis services in the upcoming NHS 10 – year plan, which is set to be announced next month.
Recent data from the Office for National Statistics (ONS) has revealed that musculoskeletal conditions, including osteoporosis, are the primary cause of lost workdays. Since 2022, the incidence of sickness absence related to these health issues has been steadily increasing, underscoring the urgent need for targeted interventions.
Mr. Streeting has pledged to address the crisis by eliminating inconsistencies in accessing early osteoporosis diagnostic centers, known as fracture liaison services (FLS). However, currently, only half of NHS trusts in England operate an FLS. Despite repeated vows to achieve universal implementation of FLS across England by 2030, advocates are hoping that this commitment will be solidified in the 10 – year plan.
Craig Jones, the CEO of the ROS, emphasized that economic progress is a central mission for the government. He noted that Britain has seen a significant rise in unemployment since the pandemic, with musculoskeletal ailments like osteoporosis being major factors forcing older employees into sick leave and caregiver absence. He added that early diagnosis of osteoporosis through FLS will help prevent worklessness and expressed the hope that the 10 – year plan will incorporate the implementation strategy that Mr. Streeting has discussed.
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