NHS 'is failing to tackle bone disease in elderly'

The NHS is struggling to tackle osteoporosis in older people, a report revealed today.

The disease causes bones to weaken, leading to a much greater risk of fractures and disability, especially among the elderly.

The All-Party Parliamentary Osteoporosis Group said only 43 per cent of primary care trusts in England expected to have integrated services to tackle the condition by April next year.

This was despite assurances from Health Secretary John Reid that the NHS was on track to meet these standards.