This online survey is part of a global consultation to gather feedback from diverse stakeholders on the strengths and limitations of the World Health Organization (WHO) definition of osteoporosis—both its conceptual and operational components. The current WHO definition, established in 1994, describes osteoporosis as "a systemic skeletal disease characterized by low bone mass and microarchitectural deterioration of bone tissue, with a consequent increase in bone fragility and susceptibility to fracture" (WHO, 1994). The operational definition relies primarily on bone mineral density (BMD) thresholds, typically measured using dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA).
As understanding of osteoporosis has evolved, there is a growing need to assess whether this definition remains appropriate across regions, populations, and health system contexts. In particular, we aim to explore its relevance in capturing risk factors, addressing equity concerns, and guiding effective diagnosis and care.
We also seek insights on the availability and accessibility of diagnostic tools such as DXA (Dual-energy X-ray Absorptiometry), especially in low-resource settings, and how these factors may impact the use of the current definition. Your feedback will inform future revisions and help ensure the WHO definition remains scientifically valid, equitable, and globally applicable.
Thank you for taking the time to participate in this global consultation survey on the WHO definition of osteoporosis. Your input is critical to ensuring that the definition reflects current scientific evidence, addresses global health needs, and supports equitable diagnosis and care across all populations.
This online survey contains 5 sections and should take around 20-25 minutes to complete.
If you have any questions about this survey or its purpose, please write to bonehealth@who.int.
There are 38 questions in this survey.
