Obesity and fractures in postmenopausal women

Abstract

Purpose of review: Although obesity was previously believed to be protective against fracture, there is now evidence that a significant proportion of fractures in postmenopausal women occur in those who are obese.

Recent findings: In this article the epidemiology, pathophysiology and clinical management of fractures in obese postmenopausal women are discussed with particular focus on the site specificity of the effect of BMI on fracture, interactions between fat and bone and risk assessment and prevention of fractures. There is similarity in many respects between risk factors for fracture in obese and nonobese women, although falls may play a particularly important role in the obese. Treatment rates in obese postmenopausal women with fracture are currently low, and further studies are required to establish effective preventive strategies.

Summary: Fractures in obese postmenopausal women contribute significantly to the overall fracture burden in this population. Further work is required to establish their pathophysiology and to develop effective preventive strategies.