Epidemiology of osteoporosis-related fractures in France: a literature review

Abstract

Objectives: To evaluate the health implications and economic burden on society of osteoporotic fractures as a major source of morbidity and mortality in the ageing population.

Methods: We have summarised the findings of a literature review of French studies published between 1960 and 2009, characterised the epidemiology of osteoporosis and osteoporotic fractures, and predicted future trends.

Results: Published data for France supported the observation that osteoporosis is under-diagnosed in many countries. The incidence of fracture increased exponentially with age, alongside a concurrent decrease in bone mineral density, a risk factor for fracture. Combined with a projected rise in the French elderly population, this poses a significant burden for the future. The incidence of fracture was high in the osteopenic population; consequently, fragility fractures may be underestimated if reports focus on osteoporotic women only. As in many other countries, French data revealed that women have a higher incidence of osteoporotic fractures than men, although mortality from hip fracture was higher in men.

Discussion: Due to ageing of the population, an increase in the number of people suffering from fractures is predicted over the next few decades unless preventative action is taken, highlighting the need for improved diagnosis and screening in postmenopausal women.