On October 18th, at the Radenci Health Resort, representatives and patients from 18 regional associations under the umbrella of the Slovene Osteoporosis Patient Society gathered for the annual World Osteoporosis Day event. Together, these associations represent 5,400 members and volunteers from across Slovenia.

The large crowd of enthusiastic attendees enjoyed music and dancing, informative talks, a heartfelt patient testimonial, and a poetry reading. Welcome stands offered snacks and, of course, the famous Radenci water. The event provided a joyous opportunity to socialize, share experiences, and draw inspiration from one another. The celebrations culminated with awards honoring associations marking significant milestones this year: 25 years of operation for the Kranj and Trbovlje associations, and 20 years for the Kočevje and Velenje associations.

Special guests included representatives from local and national authorities, as well as donors and sponsors. The Society was especially honored to welcome the President of the National Assembly, Urška Klakočar Zupančič, as the guest of honour.

In Slovenia, access to DXA scans—essential for the early detection of osteoporosis and crucial for individuals with risk factors—remains largely self-funded, except in certain cases. This issue was addressed in the President’s keynote speech. She affirmed, “Slovenia must not stray from being a social and compassionate community. I pledge to submit a proposal to the National Assembly to make bone density scans free of charge. It is vital that we remain a healthy society and care for one another.”

She also highlighted the importance of the Society’s mission, noting, “With an aging population, carrying out your mission will be even more important in the coming decades than it has been in the past.”

Earlier, in September and October, members of associations across Slovenia walked more than 24 million “steps for the overlooked”, to raise public awareness about osteoporosis and the importance of its prevention, and at the same time, pointing out that bone density measurements should be free of charge, at least for the most vulnerable people. According to estimates by the International Osteoporosis Foundation,  in 2019, there were 100,000 female patients and 25,000 male patients with osteoporosis in Slovenia, which is 5.4 percent of the total population of Slovenia. Nearly 60% of women who are at high risk for osteoporotic fractures are not being treated is particularly concerning. Among men, the treatment gap is even slightly higher. The number of overlooked and undiagnosed cases of the disease is, therefore, alarming. Many patients are only diagnosed after an osteoporotic fracture, which increases the costs of treatment and rehabilitation after fractures. 

Although the campaign was only the first step in a larger initiative that will follow next year, the response was huge. The walks brought together members of all associations, and each step was a symbol of strength, solidarity, and determination to move forward.  

Continuing the mission

In November 2025, Janja Rednjak stepped down from her role as President of the Slovene Osteoporosis Patient Society upon her election to the National Assembly of the Republic of Slovenia. She explained, “I am making this decision because of my new responsibilities and to avoid any potential conflict of interest, while ensuring the smooth and independent operation of the Association.” At the by-election, the members’ assembly unanimously elected Zdenka Zupanc Zrinski, long-time president of the Celje Regional Association of Patients with Osteoporosis, as the new President.

The International Osteoporosis Foundation extends its heartfelt thanks to Janja Rednjak for her dedication and achievements and warmly congratulates the Slovene Osteoporosis Patient Society for its tireless efforts—not only during World Osteoporosis Day, but throughout the year. The Society’s unwavering commitment continues to inspire hope, foster community, and advance bone health for all Slovenians.