2023-09-10 18:14:50
Title: Small Improvements in Bone Health Can Reduce Risk of Hip Fractures, Study Shows
Date: September 10, 2023
Author: Jamal Nazi
In a new study published in the Bone and Mineral Research Journal, researchers from the University of Technology Sydney (UTS) have found that small changes to improve skeletal health can significantly reduce the risk of hip fractures among older adults.
Hip fractures pose a serious health risk for adults over the age of 50, with one in three adults at risk of dying within 12 months due to post-surgical complications. These complications include stroke, infection, heart disease, and pneumonia.
Furthermore, slow recovery after hip fractures often leads to a loss of muscle mass, increasing the risk of falling again. This loss of independence and chronic pain further deteriorate the quality of life for those in recovery.
While it is inevitable for bone density to decrease with age, the UTS study shows that even small improvements in bone health can have a profound impact. Professor Tuan Nguyen, the lead researcher, highlights the significance of these small measures. He explains, “Even slight effects can lead to a decrease in high risk of fractures.”
To determine the impact of small changes, researchers analyzed data from the Epidemiological Osteoporosis Study. The study focused on two groups aged 60 and older and assessed fracture incidence and risk factors over different time periods. The results showed that individuals who experienced an average increase in bone density of 3% enjoyed a 45% reduction in the number of hip fractures.
These findings are encouraging because even a 10% improvement in bone density can contribute to a decrease in fracture incidence. This suggests that small improvements can have a significant health outcome for older adults.
Professor Nguyen emphasizes that individuals with osteoporosis are particularly at risk for hip fractures. While osteoporosis affects approximately 20% of women aged 50 and above and 5% of men in the same age group, it does not account for most hip fractures. However, drug therapy can reduce the risk of hip fractures by about 50% in individuals with osteoporosis.
To mitigate risk factors, Professor Nguyen urges everyone, especially older adults, to take the necessary measures to improve their bone health. Lifestyle changes, such as moderate exercise, quitting smoking, and increasing the intake of vitamins and minerals, can contribute to a 3% improvement in bone density. These changes not only strengthen bones but also improve balance, coordination, and cognitive function.
In conclusion, this study highlights the importance of prioritizing bone health to reduce the risk of hip fractures in older adults. Even small improvements can have a significant impact on fracture incidence and overall wellbeing.]
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