Global Survey Reveals Major Variation in Bone and Mineral Metabolism Biomarker Measurement

A joint study by the International Osteoporosis Foundation and International Federation of Clinical Chemistry examined laboratory practices for measuring bone status indices globally. Researchers received 231 responses from 41 countries, revealing substantial variation in how laboratories measure bone and mineral metabolism biomarkers. This inconsistency limits the ability to share data across borders, standardize tests, and maximize clinical impact for patients. The findings, published in Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine, highlight the urgent need for harmonized international standards in bone metabolism testing to improve patient care and research collaboration.