National U.S. Bone and Joint Action Week is Oct. 12-20,

Dear Nobles,

National U.S. Bone and Joint Action Week is Oct. 12-20, and we are asking you to help   spread the word about the importance of bone and joint health.  

We all want our children to grow up as healthy and strong as possible. For that to happen, it is essential to do everything we can to ensure children learn healthy habits while they are young. In term of their bones, it is important that we encourage healthy eating and an appropriate exercise program to build peak bone mass for life. As much as 90 percent of a person’s peak bone mass is established by age 18 for girls and age 20 for boys.

The consequences of low bone mass and density are serious and include osteoporosis, a condition characterized by a high risk for fractures. Although it generally affects older adults, the strongest defense is development of strong bones and peak bone mass as children.

Osteoporosis is a major health problem in America today; 10 million people have been diagnosed with the disease. An additional 34 million individuals have been identified as being at significant risk to develop the condition.

During Bone and Joint Decade’s National Action Week, Oct. 12-20, Shriners Hospitals for Children^® will work to raise awareness of the importance of nutrition and exercise for healthy bones.

We ask that you help spread this important message throughout your community, and help keep kids grow up healthy.

  

Shriners Hospitals for Children^® is providing the following resources to help you promote National U.S. Bone and Joint Action Week:

• A one-sheet 
• A news release template 
• A nutrition and exercise tips sheet
• Information on ideas to promote the campaign, including information on materials available from U.S. Bone and Joint Decade  

To view these resources and for more information about National U.S. Bone and Joint Action Week, please visit: www.shrinersvillage.com/en/TemplesAndAssociations/TempleResources/PublicAndCommunityRelations/USBoneandJoint.aspx.

U.S. Bone and Joint Decade, which continues through 2011, is a concerted worldwide effort to increase understanding and treatment of musculoskeletal disorders and injuries through prevention, education and research. Shriners Hospitals for Children^® and Shriners International have supported and promoted the campaign since it began in 2002.

National Bone and Joint Action Week is a tremendous opportunity to demonstrate the dedication of Shriners Hospitals for Children^® to improving and protecting the health of children. Your involvement and enthusiasm is greatly appreciated. Thank you for your continued support of the efforts of Shriners Hospitals for Children^® and Shriners International! 

Sincerely,

Public Relations Department

Shriners International Headquarters