Newsletters

Winter 2005

Increase in Hip Fractures in Hispanic Women

Hip fractures in Hispanic women have been steadily increasing over the past 20 years, according to recent study from the UCLA School of Medicine. Published in the medical journal Osteoporosis International, the study by Dr. David Zingmond and colleagues showed a 4.9% annual increase of hip fractures in California Hispanic women since 1983. During the same time period, hip fracture rates decreased by 0.6% per year in non-Hispanic white women.

Reasons cited for the alarming increase in Hispanics included poor nutrition, reduced levels of exercise, greater risk of falling, and lower bone density. Commenting on this study, E. Michael Lewiecki, MD, President of the Osteoporosis Foundation of New Mexico, stated, “While the chance of hip fracture in Hispanic women over age 55 is about 1/3 less than non-Hispanic white women, the trend toward greater fracture risk in Hispanics is cause for concern. The risk of osteoporosis and fragility fractures is largely determined by a combination of genetic and lifestyle factors.

This study illustrates the importance of adequate daily intake of calcium and vitamin D, regular weightbearing exercise, and fall prevention. In addition, postmenopausal women at risk for osteoporosis should consider having a bone density test to determine whether medication to strengthen the bones and reduce the risk of fractures may be helpful.”

Osteoporosis, or bone loss that can lead to fractures, is a disease that affects 44 million Americans. Osteoporosis, is a silent disease that causes no symptoms until a fracture or broken bone occurs. There are 1.5 million osteoporotic fractures each year, resulting in loss of independence, disability, and even death. If you would like more information on osteoporosis, or would like to know your risk of having a hip fracture, talk to your healthcare provider.

A bone density test, combined with an evaluation of your “clinical risk factors” for fracture, can provide important information on the need for treatment. Medication can reduce the risk of fracture by about 50%. with drugs.