Grandmother's Fall Reveals Hidden Osteoporosis Crisis

Irene Baker, a formerly active retiree from South Yorkshire, suffered severe spinal fractures while picking up her grandchild. This injury, caused by undiagnosed osteoporosis, has permanently altered her spine and reduced her lung function. Baker, who is now 73, had a family history of osteoporosis and had previously fractured her elbow, yet her condition remained unrecognized.

She is now advocating for the 'Better Bones' campaign, which seeks to implement Fracture Liaison Services (FLS) across all English health trusts by 2030. This measure aims to eliminate the current postcode lottery in diagnosis and treatment, as only half of trusts currently offer these crucial services. The campaign highlights the delayed action from the government despite repeated promises.

Baker's experience underscores the critical need for early diagnosis. Her GP, unfamiliar with osteoporosis, initially advised only light exercise. After seeking help from the Royal Osteoporosis Society, she began volunteering. Despite later fractures, including a shoulder and a broken hand in Prague, accessing timely specialist care proved challenging due to long waiting lists, even in trusts without FLS.

She believes that prompt FLS intervention after her first fracture could have prevented subsequent injuries and mitigated bone loss. The ongoing lack of widespread FLS leaves many vulnerable individuals at risk of preventable suffering and increased healthcare costs, as Baker herself points out that her untreated condition has likely cost the NHS more than necessary.