Know your fracture risk – Rogerson
North Cornwall’s Liberal Democrat MP, Dan Rogerson, underwent a fracture risk assessment in Parliament recently to raise awareness of broken bones caused by osteoporosis.
Fractures are a major health concern in Cornwall, with more broken bones occurring in the UK annually than heart attacks or strokes. 1 in 2 women and 1 in 5 men will suffer a fracture after the age of 50.
Three million people in the UK have osteoporosis, a long-term condition which causes fragile bones and can lead to painful and disabling fractures in both men and women.
Mr Rogerson underwent a FRAX fracture risk assessment, which has been developed by a group of Sheffield-based clinicians and endorsed by the World Health Organisation. FRAX is a web-based tool which takes a few minutes to complete and can determine the 10-year probabilities of suffering a hip and other major fragility fracture. The calculation is based on answers to a simple online questionnaire. The event was organised by the All-Party Parliamentary Osteoporosis Group.
Commenting after the assessment, Dan Rogerson said:
“Fractures can have a devastating impact, particularly on older people who can lose their independence, quality of life and even their home following a debilitating hip fracture. It is vitally important that people with an increased risk of fractures are getting the treatment they need to protect their bones and hopefully prevent a future fracture from ever occurring.
“The FRAX tool is a quick and easy way of predicting fracture risk. Anyone can do the test online by typing FRAX into a search engine and completing the online assessment. If you are worried about fractures or osteoporosis, or concerned that a friend or family member may be at risk, make an appointment to see your GP.”
