England osteoporosis diagnosis rate flatlines as rollout of fracture clinics lags

The Royal Osteoporosis Society stated that diagnosis rates for osteoporosis in England are flatlining. New data from the national Fracture Liaison Service audit showed 79,553 patients were identified by these services in 2025, compared with 77,136 in 2024.

The charity said services need to identify 264,000 patients each year to cover the full eligible population. It estimated that, at the current rate, the target would not be reached until 2064.

Current access and targets Just over half of NHS trusts currently operate a Fracture Liaison Service. The Royal Osteoporosis Society said the remaining areas face uneven access, describing the situation as a postcode lottery. An estimated 3.5 million people in the UK live with osteoporosis. The condition weakens bones over time and is often diagnosed only after a fracture occurs.

Government commitment and next steps The Royal Osteoporosis Society noted that the government pledged before the election to roll out the services nationwide by 2030. A Department of Health and Social Care spokesperson said the government remains committed to that timeline and is investing in 20 new DEXA scanners this year, following 13 installed last year.

Craig Jones, chief executive of the Royal Osteoporosis Society, said the figures show England is flatlining on diagnosis and called on ministers to clarify how the pledge will be met.