UPDATE: In a pivotal move for bone health awareness, Olympic champion Sally Pearson and Elaine Cotter, a Melbourne grandmother, have successfully secured an additional $700,000 in funding for osteoporosis prevention. This urgent initiative aims to educate the public about the critical importance of bone health, especially for vulnerable populations.
Pearson and Cotter, both deeply aware of the severe pain and fear associated with broken bones, are united in their mission. Cotter, aged 61, faced a grueling three-year struggle before being diagnosed with osteoporosis, despite numerous consultations with six different doctors. “With certain movements around the house, like picking up a sock or twisting in the kitchen, it would disable me,” she revealed, describing her experience as a “roller-coaster of pain.”
The federal government announced this funding boost on October 23, 2023, as part of the Healthy Bones Australia Month initiative. The funding includes the deployment of a “Bone Bus” to conduct vital bone density checks in regional areas, emphasizing the need for widespread awareness and prevention efforts.
Pearson, who experienced a “bone explosion” after a race in Rome in 2015, understands the profound impact fractures can have on daily life. “I remember the fear I had when I broke my wrist,” she stated. “It’s the mental impact these fractures can have on people that made me realize how crucial our focus on bone health prevention is.”
Despite the increasing awareness efforts, many medical professionals are still not adequately referring patients for necessary checks. This gap in healthcare can lead to undiagnosed osteoporosis and debilitating fractures, particularly in older adults. “You can fracture just by coughing or sneezing,” Cotter warned. “If your bones are really weak, you start falling apart basically.”
To combat this issue, the Know Your Bones self-assessment tool has been introduced, enabling individuals to identify potential bone health issues to discuss with healthcare providers. While osteoporosis can affect anyone, women of menopausal age are especially urged to take preventive measures.
As the funding initiative rolls out, officials stress the need for both public awareness and medical education. The urgency of improving bone health is clear. With the right strategies, millions can be spared from the debilitating effects of osteoporosis.
Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story, as Pearson and Cotter continue to lead the charge for better bone health across Australia. Share this article to spread awareness and help others understand the importance of bone health today.
