Osteoporosis has been placed high on Bradford's list of health priorities in a bid to tackle the 'silent thief'.

And a one day event to reduce the risks of the bone disease proved so popular, another is to be held in the city.

Bradford South and West Primary Care Trust (PCT) were overwhelmed by interest in the first osteoporosis awareness day to be held in Bradford.

More than 50 people attended the event to learn about the benefits of exercise, diet and lifestyle to reduce injuries from brittle bones.

Sarah Warner, of the PCT, said she was thrilled by the level of interest.

She stated: "Osteoporosis is an insidious condition that drains away bone - the hardest, most durable substance in the body.

"It happens slowly, over years, so that often neither doctor nor patient is aware of weakening bones until one snaps unexpectedly.

"That is why the condition is called the 'silent thief' and why tackling it is at the very top of our health promotion agenda."

The one-day event coincided with the launch of Osteoporosis Awareness Month.

Two thousand bone scans are carried out each year at Bradford Royal Infirmary and latest statistics show that almost half of the female population suffer a fracture related to the condition by the time they are 70.

Women are at greater risk from the disease, particularly after menopause, although it also affects at least one in 12 men.

Georgina Cooke, 60, of Cottingley, was diagnosed with osteoporosis seven years ago after breaking her wrist.

"There's a lot of ignorance about osteoporosis as it's a disease you only know about when something happens," she said.

"We're very lucky in Bradford to have this event and to know you are not on your own."

The day's events included Tai-chi-based gentle exercises to build up bone strength and pointers on a calcium-rich diet.

People were also encouraged to see their GP about exercise on prescription.

Dr Mary Jones, chairman of the Leeds branch of the National Osteoporosis Society who attended the event, said more awareness was vital.

"This event really is a trend-setter and I hope other members of Primary Care Trusts will follow their example," she said.

OSTEOPOROSIS - THE FACTS:

Osteoporosis means porous bones and occurs when the holes in the bone mesh become bigger, making it fragile and liable to break easily.

The condition can affect the whole skeleton, but most commonly causes fractures to bones in the wrist, spine and hip.

The accompanying chronic pain and anxiety can prevent people undertaking the simplest of tasks - even a sneeze can lead to broken bones.

Warning signs include height loss and pain or curvature of the spine, which can in turn cause digestive and breathing problems.

The condition is caused by a combination of genetic, dietary and hormonal factors. But heavy drinking, lack of exercise and a low calcium diet can also increase the risk of developing brittle bones.