[Osteoporosis: problems and considerations of economical nature].

In 1991 WHO classified osteoporosis as a major social disease, on the basis of its high prevalence, expected to rise in the future, its physical and psychological consequences and its economical costs for both the society and the individual. In the past, costs, especially the undirected and intangible ones, have been largely underestimated, due to their complex quantification. A more accurate and a deeper evaluation of the pathology and its economical burden on National Health Services will lead to a better planning of prevention strategies.