For many people it is a great shock to be diagnosed with osteoporosis. The most feared consequence of this disease is a fracture of the femoral neck. 20% of those who experience this die from subsequent diseases, a third of them remain disabled for the rest of their lives. As the disease can be carried for up to ten years without showing any symptoms, it is simply ignored by many patients. They refuse to undergo any therapy and  are only prepared to confront their situation after breaking a bone for the first time.

The patients who want to concern themselves seriously and responsibly with their disease and the possibilities of therapy have problems finding independent and scientifically checked information. Many websites are steered by profit-oriented companies or other interest groups.

The best source of information for the patients is a personal talk with their doctor. They are also greatly accepted by the population. Unfortunately, however, there is a lack of time resources here. Our health systems hardly pay doctors for talking to patients, if at all. The training of patients is a way of improving their competences to deal with their illness and its consequences and, through this, to facilitate a self determined life. Through disease management programmes, patient training is a significant component of integrated care in several European countries.