Fractures cause an enormous burden on the individual and on society worldwide.
In the Round Table discussion that begins on page 416 of this issue, the impact on the individual is described by Delmas and Fraser in terms of mortality and morbidity, and the effect on quality of life is clearly described through personal experience in a discussion article by Anna Peckham. The economic costs to health care and society are considerable. The burden of osteoporosis is increasing in all societies, as reviewed by Delmas and Fraser and emphasized in several of the Round Table commentaries from different parts of the globe. Important reasons are the increase in the global population and prolonged life expectancy with a disproportionate increase in the number of very elderly. Along with development, there are social and lifestyle changes that increase the risk of noncommunicable disorders.