Report shows decline in hip fractures
The rate of hip fractures due to osteoporosis has decreased, according to a report released by the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW) last week.
The report, A snapshot of osteoporosis in Australia, showed that the rate of osteoporotic hip fractures fell by 15% for women and 8% for men between 1998-99 and 2007-08.
AIHW spokesperson, Dr Nalia Rahman, told DPS Publishing that on its own, osteoporosis is rarely an underlying cause of death, but research has shown certain osteoporotic fractures increases the risk of death considerably in the first three months after the fracture.
She said the National Health Survey data showed that 82% of women were diagnosed with the condition, and 84% of them were aged 55 years or older.
According to Dr Rahman, the most common sites for osteoporotic fractures are the hip and pelvic followed by the wrist and forearm.
Despite a decline in hip fractures, health expenditure for osteoporosis more than doubled from $139 million in 2000-01 to $304 million in 2004-05, mostly for prescription pharmaceuticals.
Osteoporosis is a largely preventable condition as evidence suggests lifestyle factors, such as diet and exercise, medications and falls prevention programs can help to prevent or lessen its impact.
To read the AIHW’s full report on osteoporosis in Australia, go to www.aihw.gov.au
