Opening a short debate in the House of Lords on Fracture Liaison Services, Guy pointed out that they are "vital for the identification and treatment of osteoporosis. That silent disease, as it is known, causes over half a million broken bones each year—one every minute—and as many deaths, resulting from fractures, as lung cancer and diabetes."

He said that the FLS is the "world standard" for fracture prevention, but that too many suffering from osteoporosis are unable to access the service. He pointed out to the Government that when the Royal Osteoporosis Society surveyed NHS trusts in England, only 51% confirmed they provided the service, adding that "many of those are underfunded".

He asked the Government what action it would take "to reduce such clear health inequalities and make sure that fracture liaison services are available to all".

The full text of the debate - including the Government Minister's response - is here.

ENDS