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Majority of older adults face fracture risk

05.02.2012

A significant portion of the population may be at risk for experiencing a bone fracture, as a new study from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention indicates that more than half of all adults have osteoporosis or low bone density.

The findings could represent a developing public health crisis. Numerous studies have shown that older adults have elevated mortality rates after breaking a bone, particularly if the fracture occurs in the hip. Maintaining strong bones plays an important role in overall wellness.

In the present study, the researchers examined data collected through the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey from between 2005 and 2008. The results showed that 9 percent of all adults over the age of 50 had osteoporosis during this time. Additionally, slightly more than 50 percent had low bone density. This puts a person at risk for developing the brittle bone condition.

Furthermore, the results showed that certain groups face a higher risk of having weak bones or developing osteoporosis. Rates were highest among women, Hispanics and older adults. About 26 percent of Hispanic women over the age of 50 had osteoporosis, while an additional 60 percent had low bone density.

However, a person does not necessarily have to suffer from weakened bones simply because they fall into one of these categories. Weight-bearing exercises, improved nutrition and other lifestyle changes can help older women reduce their chances of suffering a fracture.

Healthcare and wellness programs may be able to alert high-risk patients to some of the things they can do to control their chances of experiencing a broken bone. This may help individuals age in a much healthier condition.

Categories: Health and Wellness