National Health Council — Voluntary Health Agency Guide

National Osteoporosis Foundation

The National Osteoporosis Foundation is the nation's leading resource for patients, health-care professionals and organizations seeking up-to-date, medically-sound information and program materials on the causes, prevention and treatment of osteoporosis.

Established in 1984 as America's only voluntary, nonprofit health organization dedicated to reducing the widespread prevalence of osteoporosis, the foundation has grown to include a network of individuals, health-care professionals and organizations who support its mission: to prevent osteoporosis, to promote lifelong bone health, to help improve the lives of those affected by osteoporosis and related fractures and to find a cure.   NOF achieves its mission through programs of awareness, public and health professional education, advocacy and research.

About the condition(s):

Osteoporosis is a disease in which bones become fragile and more likely to break. If not prevented or if left untreated, osteoporosis can progress painlessly until a bone breaks. These broken bones, also known as fractures, occur typically in the hip, spine, and wrist. Any bone can be affected, but of special concern are fractures of the hip and spine. A hip fracture almost always requires hospitalization and major surgery. It can impair a person's ability to walk unassisted and may cause prolonged or permanent disability or even death. Spinal or vertebral fractures also have serious consequences, including loss of height, severe back pain and deformity.