Twenty-Five States Unite to Combat Osteoporosis Awareness and Prevention Efforts

Record Action Against Osteoporosis

In a landmark effort, the Bone Health and Osteoporosis Foundation (BHOF) announced on May 27, 2025, that an impressive number of 25 states have proactively engaged in legislative and executive measures aimed at combating osteoporosis. This unprecedented mobilization marks the highest participation rate ever recorded for the annual campaign promoting awareness and prevention of this serious health issue.

The states participating in this movement include Arkansas, Arizona, Colorado, Georgia, Hawaii, Kansas, Nevada, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Mississippi, New Jersey, New Mexico, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Virginia, Washington, West Virginia, and Wisconsin. Many of these states have either passed new legislation or issued gubernatorial proclamations calling for action during the month of May, designed to spotlight the significance of osteoporosis awareness and prevention.

This initiative was sparked by a nationwide campaign launched by BHOF, which seeks to disseminate crucial information regarding the debilitating condition and its far-ranging health implications. According to a comprehensive report from Milliman Research, titled "The Clinical and Cost Burden of Fractures Associated with Osteoporosis," the financial impact of osteoporotic fractures is staggering and is projected to escalate from $57 billion to over $95 billion by the year 2030, particularly as the population ages. The report provided vital statistics to all 50 states on the frequency of osteoporotic fractures, detailing their effects on healthcare systems and financial burdens on Medicare.

Claire Gill, CEO of BHOF, emphasized the critical importance of prioritizing bone health as an essential component of overall well-being. She stated, "Half of all women and one-quarter of all men over the age of 50 will experience a broken bone due to osteoporosis during their lifetime. These fractures can lead to debilitating injuries and even fatalities. However, they are preventable, and we commend the state policy leaders who are raising awareness about this disease and encouraging preventative measures."

To intensify the focus on osteoporosis this May, BHOF has rolled out activities such as the "Walk a Mile a Day in May" initiative. This campaign has garnered support from various celebrities, who shared video messages aimed at bolstering public awareness. These inspirational messages can be found circulating on BHOF’s social media platforms, creating an interactive dialogue around the disease and inspiring individuals to take an active role in their bone health.

The Bone Health and Osteoporosis Foundation, which has rebranded from its previous name, the National Osteoporosis Foundation, stands at the forefront of advocacy efforts dedicated to preventing osteoporosis and mitigating the risk associated with weak bones. BHOF's mission spans public education, clinician awareness, and research facilitating a deeper understanding of the condition. Established in 1984, the organization aims to emerge as the nation’s largest health authority focused entirely on osteoporosis and bone health management. For those interested in learning more about osteoporosis, resources, and ways to enhance bone health, visit www.bonehealthandosteoporosis.org.

As the landscape of osteoporosis awareness evolves, the joint actions of these 25 states exemplify a significant stride towards preventive healthcare that not only champions the health of individuals but also supports the broader community in addressing a prevalent health concern affecting millions.