A great deal of progress has been made since the National Osteoporosis Society was established in 1986: scientific understanding of osteoporosis has improved immeasurably, scanning machines used to diagnose osteoporosis are much more widespread and a wide range of treatments has been developed. However, there are still many areas of osteoporosis that we desperately need to understand and there is a great deal of research still to be done.

We need to continue to fund vital research projects in the years to come. Scientific research into why, how and when people develop fragile bones and fractures can ultimately save lives. More high-quality research could help us to eradicate preventable fractures completely.

We need to support the clinicians and young scientists of tomorrow specialising in osteoporosis and bone health research. This will ensure that the highest quality of research continues to be performed in the UK. Through our studentship, prize schemes and bursaries we can help build the talent pool in osteoporosis research.

We need to engage with other partners to persuade them to facilitate and fund the research we believe needs to be done, but which is beyond our own resources.

Investment in medical research today can change the future for people with, or at risk of, fragile bones and help us to keep people breakfree for life.