Fracture Liaison Services: National Coverage

Baroness Nargund Excerpts

Tuesday 27th October 2026 Lords Chamber

[Baroness Merron (Lab)]

I am sure we will discuss that at great length in Committee. While I absolutely accept there is a difference in the service level across the country—that is not acceptable, as I am sure we would all agree—it is not the hands-off approach that is often suggested. We have made, through the medium-term planning framework, the neighbourhood health framework and the 10-year health plan an identification that those at risk of frailty are a priority cohort. Our best practice guide was recently updated to give the NHS and local government joint ownership of delivery. In all these ways and a number of others, we support local decision-making and provision.

[Baroness Nargund (Lab)]

My Lords, osteoporosis disproportionately affects more women at menopause. Tens of thousands of women under the age of 40 who undergo menopause tend to receive a delayed diagnosis, and some end up with fractures before their menopause diagnosis is made. Does my noble friend the Minister agree that the fracture liaison services need to be integrated into women’s health hubs, so that younger women with menopause receive not only an early diagnosis and treatment but advice on fracture prevention?

[Baroness Merron (Lab)]

My noble friend is right to identify that there is a higher incidence of osteoporosis in women than men; it is more common. Some 80% of osteoporotic vertebral fractures are not identified and not managed appropriately, which again is unacceptable. That is why NIHR research has investigated the use of a new questionnaire to improve the diagnosis of these fractures in women. If it is successful—I hope it will be—it will reduce fracture risk and change clinical practice, particularly for older women with back pain.