A multidisciplinary scientific society endeavouring to encourage further research in the field of osteoporosis, falls and fractures.
Introduction
A group of researchers and clinicians with an interest in
physical activity gathered on 1st April 1999 during the
Third International Congress on Osteoporosis held in Xian,
China. The resulting Society - The International Society of
Physical Activity for the Prevention of Osteoporosis, Falls
and Fractures (PAPOFF) was officially launched at the same
congress on 2nd April 1999. The following statement from the
society was issued at the launch. "The aim of the society is
to encourage physical activity at all ages of life,
particularly with a view to improving tone, strength, muscle
function and postural stability, and with the ultimate goals
of reducing the risks of falls and fractures. This is a
multi-disciplinary scientific society which will endeavour
to encourage further research in the field and to promote
education to the public and healthcare professions."
Dr Ole Simonsen, Orthopaedic Surgeon from Hjoerring,
Denmark, who has a special interest in physical activity and
exercise was elected the first President of the society. He
states "I am delighted that since the initial meeting in
China many more people have already shown great interest in
the Society. I hope that people with an interest in the
field of physical activity and exercise from different
backgrounds will contribute to the society and make it a
success. I hope that members will start networking with one
another and that the Society will develop close links with
other organisations with common interests."