Washington, DC, May 2: The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS), in collaboration with the Osteoporosis Action Network (OAN), has launched a nationwide initiative titled “Stand Bone Strong” during Osteoporosis Awareness & Prevention Month, aimed at addressing the widespread underdiagnosis and undertreatment of Osteoporosis.
In the United States, osteoporosis leads to approximately 2 million fractures annually, with over 400,000 cases requiring hospitalization—surpassing hospitalizations due to heart attacks, strokes, or breast cancer. Despite its prevalence, the condition is often overlooked or mistaken as a normal part of aging.
The Stand Bone Strong initiative introduces a new awareness symbol intended to spark national conversations around early diagnosis, fracture prevention, and improved post-fracture care. Much like the pink ribbon for breast cancer awareness, the campaign aims to elevate bone health as a lifelong priority.
AAOS emphasized the clinical urgency behind the initiative, noting that fractures are often the first visible sign of osteoporosis. The campaign seeks to educate the public and healthcare providers on:
- Why osteoporosis is frequently underdiagnosed
- Identifying high-risk individuals and when to begin screening
- Preventive measures to strengthen bone health
- Steps to take following falls or fragility fractures
Through this initiative, AAOS is working to encourage earlier intervention, improve patient outcomes, and reduce the long-term burden of osteoporosis-related injuries.
To support public education, AAOS is also promoting resources available on OrthoInfo, offering accessible information on symptoms, prevention, diagnosis, and treatment options, including guidance on when to consult an orthopaedic specialist.
The Stand Bone Strong campaign reflects a unified effort by medical societies, patient advocacy groups, and healthcare leaders to reshape the narrative around bone health and ensure osteoporosis receives the attention it demands.
