Osteoporosis is present when bone becomes fragile to the point that fractures occur without much trauma. Unfortunately, the first symptom and sign of osteoporosis is often a fracture. Current statistics suggest 1 in 2 women and 1 in 3 men over the aged of 60 will sustain an osteoporotic fracture.

Of all diagnosed fractures: 46% are vertebral, 16% hip and 16% wrist. However, more than half of all spinal fractures do not come to medical attention although nearly all are associated with disability and pain.

Substantial morbidity and mortality is associated with osteoporosis. It remains a common disease (affecting an estimated 1.9 million Australians in 2001 with 65,514 Australians hospitalized with osteoporotic fractures in 2001), which is commonly undetected and therefore undertreated.

It is estimated that less than 25% of people with osteoporotic fractures are on appropriate treatment, in spite of very effective treatment being available.