Osteoporosis research awarded $25,000

The first osteoporosis screening program to identify patients at high risk of fracture following stroke will be established, after the ANZBMS and Bone Health Foundation awarded Hudson Institute a $25,000 grant.

The project will be led by Associate Professor Frances Milat and is the first of its kind to address the effectiveness of an osteoporosis optimisation and fracture prevention program following stroke.

The research will improve the understanding, prevention and treatment of individuals with poor bone health.

A/Prof Milat is a clinician-researcher trained in clinical endocrinology and metabolic bone disorders. She is the Deputy Head of Endocrinology and Head of Metabolic Bone Services at Monash Health, Head of the Metabolic Bone Research Group at Hudson Institute and Adjunct Associate Professor, Monash University.

“Osteoporosis and fractures in individuals with neurological disability is a neglected area of healthcare and research worldwide,” A/Prof Milat said.

“Common neurological conditions including stroke, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease and cerebral palsy are associated with a three to seven -fold increase in fracture risk. Fractures are a devastating event in these populations, leading to prolonged disability and increased mortality.”

“The ANZBMS (Australian and New Zealand Bone and Mineral Society) and Bone Health Foundation Grant has been critical in providing support for an important project in fracture prevention following stroke.”