From NOF to BHOF: The Evolution of a National Health Leader
The National Osteoporosis Foundation (NOF) rebranded to the Bone Health and Osteoporosis Foundation (BHOF) in 2021 after an 18-month review process. This change broadened the organization's focus to encompass lifelong bone health and prevention, not just osteoporosis. The new name aimed to better represent the organization's comprehensive programs, which include awareness campaigns, educational materials, advocacy, and research funding.
The Reason Behind the Rebrand
The rebranding was motivated by the desire to expand the mission to include prevention across all life stages and to solidify the organization's role as a leading national health organization in bone health. The new name, leading with "Bone Health," encourages proactive wellness and highlights the importance of building and maintaining bone density throughout life.
BHOF and American Bone Health Unite
In October 2023, BHOF merged with American Bone Health, a partner in bone health education. This merger combined the expertise and resources of both organizations to better serve patients, caregivers, and healthcare professionals with unified programs and information.
Comparison of Past and Present Missions
| Feature | National Osteoporosis Foundation (NOF) | Bone Health and Osteoporosis Foundation (BHOF) |
|---|---|---|
| Core Focus | Primary emphasis on osteoporosis diagnosis and treatment. | Expands focus to include lifelong bone health and prevention in addition to osteoporosis. |
| Target Audience | Primarily patients with osteoporosis and their healthcare providers. | Broader audience including all ages and stages of life, from childhood prevention to managing osteoporosis later in life. |
| Programs | Centered on osteoporosis awareness, education, and research. | Includes a wider range of programs promoting overall bone health and post-fracture care. |
| Prevention Strategy | Focused on preventing fractures in diagnosed patients. | Emphasizes building and maintaining bone health across the entire lifespan to prevent fractures. |
| Name Rationale | Specific to the disease, making it more challenging to address prevention with younger populations. | More inclusive name that better represents the organization's expanded mission and focus on wellness. |
| Major Partners | Founded National Bone Health Alliance with other organizations. | Merged with American Bone Health to consolidate resources and reach. |
Programs and Resources Under BHOF
BHOF offers various programs and resources, including patient education materials and online resources, professional training like BoneSource® for healthcare providers, advocacy efforts, research funding, and virtual support groups such as Bone Buddies.
Conclusion: A Broader, More Inclusive Mission
The name change to the Bone Health and Osteoporosis Foundation signifies an expanded mission to address bone health across all life stages. This shift allows the organization to educate a wider audience on prevention and wellness, complemented by the merger with American Bone Health, creating a more comprehensive resource for the public and professionals. The new name better reflects the organization's commitment to improving bone health for everyone.
Visit the Bone Health and Osteoporosis Foundation website for the latest information.
