Public awareness days are also important. I gave my whole-hearted support to the first ever World Osteoporosis Day in 1996 and I will continue to do so every year. This year we have the added scientific and political punch of this report. I believe that with 24 June 1998 we can hope for dramatic results in terms of building awareness. And, of course, we have the added plus of World Health Organisation support.
European citizens insist on a high level of health care.
This report will serve as an invaluable aid when people are looking to what can be done to improve care in the area of osteoporosis. All policy-makers should think carefully about what it says and learn from its findings. In concluding, ladies and gentlemen, let me once again congratulate the members of the Expert Committee for Osteoporosis. I must also thank the European Foundation for Osteoporosis for distributing this report throughout their network and for their commitment to raising the profile of this disease. I have no doubt that this is a report that will engage the attention of a vast range of people from grass roots to the highest policy making circles.