The New Jersey Interagency Council on Osteoporosis (ICO), an advisory group to the New Jersey Department of Health and Senior Services (DHSS), has presented the 2007 New Jersey Osteoporosis Prevention Awards to three New Jersey residents. 

The awards are presented annually to dedicated volunteers and professionals each year in May during Osteoporosis Awareness and Prevention Month.

Marjorie Bissinger of Parsippany was honored with the Professional Award for her outstanding efforts to reduce and prevent osteoporosis-related fractures through exercise, good posture and balance.  A physical therapist and the president of Work Fit Consultants, she lends her professional expertise in support of the DHSS Project Healthy Bones program, a peer-led osteoporosis education and exercise program conducted throughout New Jersey.

Elizabeth Hontz of Clinton received the Consumer Award for many years of devoted service as a volunteer leader for Project Healthy Bones.  Through her efforts, program participants say they are more health conscious, and have changed their behavior thanks to her sharing of resources and weekly discussions.

Sally Fullman of Murray Hill received the Consumer Award for her proactive approach to osteoporosis issues.  Ms. Fullman has personally linked concerned consumers with medical experts to answer questions on critical health information.  An active volunteer peer leader for Project Healthy Bones, Ms. Fullman provides special charts and materials to help participants meet their personal goals.

The ICO is dedicated to the development, implementation and evaluation of a comprehensive osteoporosis prevention and education program to benefit New Jersey residents and professionals.

For more information on the ICO and Project Healthy Bones, please contact Sue Lachenmayr, DHSS Division of Aging and Community Services at (609) 292-9152, or via e-mail at susan.lachenmayr@doh.state.nj.us.

Osteoporosis, known as the Silent Disease, is a serious condition in which bones become thin, brittle and are easily broken.  According to the National Osteoporosis Foundation, nearly half of all women and 20 percent of all men can be expected to sustain an osteoporosis-related fracture in their lifetime.  Osteoporosis can impair an individual’s ability to walk unassisted, and often results in prolonged or permanent disability, institutionalization or death.

Osteoporosis is largely preventable through healthy behaviors, including a balanced diet rich in calcium and vitamin D, weight-bearing exercise, a healthy lifestyle without smoking or excessive alcohol, bone density testing and medications when appropriate.