House Approves Resolution Supporting the Goals of National Osteoporosis Month

On June 6, the House approved, by voice vote, a resolution (H. Res. 265) supporting the goals and ideals of National Osteoporosis Awareness and Prevention Month.

Sponsored by Reps. Shelley Berkley (D-NV) and Michael Burgess (R-TX), the resolution contains a number of findings, including:

• Osteoporosis, a disease characterized by low bone mass, structural deterioration of bone, and increased susceptibility to fractures, is a public health threat for an estimated 44 million Americans;
• Fifty percent of women over age 50 will have an osteoporosis-related fracture in their lifetime; and
• Bone health can be maximized, and osteoporosis prevented, by a balanced diet rich in calcium and vitamin D; weight-bearing exercise; and a healthy lifestyle with no smoking or excessive alcohol intake.Rep. Berkley said her personal experience with osteoporosis has deepened her commitment to ensuring that all people “are aware of the importance of early detection and prevention.” She went on to say that “prevention, diagnosis and treatment are the keys to tackling osteoporosis and as a nation, we must teach people of all ages how to take the necessary steps to keep their bones healthy and strong for a lifetime.”

  Rep. Nathan Deal (R-GA) urged support of the resolution, noting the serious nature of the disease: “The consequences of osteoporosis can be devastating, painful, costly and even deadly. Approximately 20 percent of hip fracture patients will die within a year after their fracture, usually from complications related to the fracture.”

  The resolution urges that all people observe appropriate programs and activities with respect to osteoporosis, including talking with their health care professionals about their bone health.