International Osteoporosis Foundation

The International Osteoporosis Foundation (IOF) is a registered not-for-profit, non-governmental foundation based in Switzerland. IOF functions as a global alliance of patient societies, research organizations, healthcare professionals and international companies working to promote bone, muscle and joint health. We do this by: Empowering people to take action to prevent, diagnose and treat bone, muscle and joint disorders Campaigning for policy change to make bone, muscle and joint disorders a healthcare priority Assisting healthcare professionals to provide the best possible care to people with bone, muscle and joint disorders Supporting national osteoporosis societies to maximize their effectiveness in promoting bone, muscle and joint health The International Osteoporosis Foundation works in 95 locations around the world through its 207 national societies. Our vision is a world where healthy musculoskeletal systems work to prevent fragility fractures.

First Argentinean study on epidemiology, costs and burden of osteoporosis published

A comprehensive Argentinean epidemiological study reveals the staggering costs of osteoporosis in the country.
The key findings of the article published in April 2010 in the scientific journal “Archives of Osteoporosis”, include:

In Argentina…

Vigorous exercise strengthens hip bones in young children

Researchers from Southhampton and Cambridge Universities in the UK have presented evidence that vigorous physical activity in young children results in stronger hip bones. The results were presented at the World Congress on Osteoporosis (IOF WCO-ECCEO10) in Florence, Italy.

New vitamin D recommendations for older men and women

The International Osteoporosis Foundation (IOF) has released a new position statement on Vitamin D for older adults which makes important recommendations for vitamin D nutrition from an evidence-based perspective.

Quality of life reduced in hospitalized vertebral fracture patients

Vertebral fractures are the most common of all osteoporotic fractures and can have a devastating impact on a person’s quality of life.

Research presented today at the World Congress on Osteoporosis 2010 (IOF WCO-ECCEO10) from the ongoing ICUROS study gave an indication of the early results of quality of life effects in relation to vertebral fractures.

Age, ethnicity and environment impact on risk of falls in elderly men

Falls and fall prevention are a major concern for the elderly and people with osteoporosis, a common chronic disease which causes weak and fragile bones. People with osteoporosis are at increased risk of fracture, even after a minor fall from standing height.

Long-term use of certain contraception injections associated with increased fracture risk

A new study presented today at the World Congress on Osteoporosis (IOF WCO-ECCEO10) in Florence, Italy shows that DMPA, a commonly used injectible contraceptive, is associated with higher risk of bone fracture when used alone, and not in combination with estrogens.

Young people with inflammatory bowel diseases are at increased risk of fracture

A team of scientists from the University Hospitals of Geneva and Lausanne have shown that young people with inflammatory bowel diseases have low bone mass and poor bone architecture compared to healthy people of the same age, placing them at increased risk of fracture.

Vitamin D deficiency is widespead and on the increase

A new report issued by the International Osteoporosis Foundation (IOF) and published in the scientific journal Osteoporosis International¹, shows that populations across the globe are suffering from the impact of low levels of vitamin D. The problem is widespread and on the increase, with potentially severe repercussions for overall health and fracture rates.