(Washington, D.C.) October 19, 2005 – The National Osteoporosis Foundation (NOF) is joining organizations around the world in recognizing World Osteoporosis Day on October 20th to help raise awareness about the important role of exercise in building peak bone mass and maintaining bone health.
In the U.S., NOF is hosting a “Virtual” Fitness Day for anyone, anywhere, at anytime to participate in weight-bearing activities that improve bone strength. After completing their chosen activities, participants can visit www.nof.org to share their experiences with our virtual fitness community. NOF hopes this day will help all Americans commit to an active lifestyle.
“This is the first time that NOF has tried this particular activity and we hope that it encourages women and men everywhere to participate on October 20th, but also to focus on the ongoing importance of weight bearing exercise in maintaining strong bones. By registering for this event, people are also helping support NOF, our mission and programs,” said Judith Cranford, Executive Director of NOF.
An estimated 44 million American men and women ages 50 and older either have or are at risk for osteoporosis, according to NOF prevalence statistics. One in two women and one in four men in this age group will break a bone due to osteoporosis.Osteoporosis, or porous bone, is a disease characterized by low bone mass and structural deterioration of bone tissue, leading to bone fragility and an increased susceptibility to fractures, especially of the hip, spine and wrist, although any bone can be affected.
To register for “Virtual” Fitness Day, visit NOF’s Web site at www.nof.org. In support of NOF, registration is $20 and all registrants will receive a “Virtual” Fitness Day t-shirt.
About NOF: Established in 1984, the National Osteoporosis Foundation is the nation’s leading voluntary health organization solely dedicated to osteoporosis and bone health. NOF is working to make bone health a reality and a lifelong priority for all individuals through programs of awareness, public and health professional education, advocacy and research.
Last week, a Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Panel voted that the risks of calcitonin salmon outweigh the benefits for the treatment of postmenopausal osteoporosis. The panel joined health authorities around the world in reviewing the drug’s safety after two recent studies showed slightly higher rates of cancer among patients taking calcitonin. The panel voted against continued use of the drug by a narrow majority, pointing out that it has not been found very effective in preventing bone fractures.
In today's Washington Post article "Calcium and Vitamin D findings show that caring for your bones can be compilicated," NOF's senior clinical director, Dr. Felicia Cosman helps clear up some of the confusion around the recent and conflicting research on calcium and vitamin D. She says: "It’s confusing, even for doctors. But there’s a common thread: None of the heart or kidney risks were associated with calcium from food."
CIRCA, the leading international buyer of fine jewelry, diamonds and watches, announced a new partnership with NOF at a Generations of Strength luncheon at the Friars Club in New York City on February 26. To kick-off the partnership, CIRCA’s Acting CEO Mary L. Forté presented NOF Executive Director and CEO Amy Porter with a check for $25,000, to support NOF’s mission.