Paget’s Awareness Day 11th January
Paget’s disease was named after Sir James Paget who first described the disease in 1877. It is a chronic bone disorder characterised by the abnormal enlargement and weakening of bones, often leading to pain and deformities.
Paget’s disease primarily affects the bones, disrupting the normal process of bone remodelling, where old bone is replaced by new bone tissue. This condition can lead to bones becoming fragile and misshapen, commonly affecting the pelvis, skull, spine, and the long bones of the arms and legs. (health direct).
It's a common condition in the UK particularly in older people. It’s rare in people under 50 years of age. (NHS)
Symptoms can include bone pain, deformities, joint pain and neurological issues if the skull or spine is affected. There are medications called Bisphosphonates that can help strengthen bone and reduce pain. Surgery may also be needed if there are severe deformities.
Paget’s Awareness Day aims to educate the public about the disease as early diagnosis and effective management of this condition is vital. The day is also to highlight the ongoing efforts to improve lives of people affected by Paget’s disease through research and support (paget.org.uk).
Visit Paget’s association for more information.
