Thousands of hip fractures could be avoided if osteoporosis care becomes nationwide
A new NHS-funded report warns that about 10,000 hip fractures each year could have been prevented if all trusts offered Fracture Liaison Services.
A recent NHS-backed analysis highlights a "postcode lottery" in osteoporosis care, with just over half of trusts operating Fracture Liaison Services (FLS). The report estimates that each year roughly 10,000 individuals are admitted with hip fractures that might have been avoided through earlier bone-strengthening treatment after an initial fragility fracture. Across England, Wales, Jersey and Northern Ireland, about 72,000 hip-fracture admissions occur, costing the NHS £1.1 billion and social care £1.25 billion in the first 120 days.
The Royal Osteoporosis Society projects that full FLS coverage could prevent 31,000 hip fractures over five years and save £665 million. Although the government pledged nationwide rollout by 2030, no detailed implementation plan exists, prompting calls for immediate action.
Why it matters
Preventable hip fractures strain the NHS and cost lives; expanding bone-health services could save patients and billions.
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