Osteoporosis: fracture epidemiology update 2016

Abstract

Purpose of review: The purpose of this review is to provide an update on osteoporosis epidemiology. The focus is on fractures because fractures are the most important clinical consequence of osteoporosis. Studies published over the past 18 months are identified and reviewed. Finally, the clinical impact of these new findings is discussed.

Recent findings: Important research in 2015-2016 include analyses of screening and rescreening in younger women and older men, risk factors for hip fractures in older men, obesity and weight loss/gain, and risk of fracture. Several dietary factors, including adherence to a Mediterranean diet and a diet rich in protein, fruits, and vegetables and maintenance of physical function with increasing age represent modifiable nonpharmacologic risk factors that improve bone health. Sarcopenia may have a more important role in fracture in men than women. Important biomarkers for fracture include low 25-hydroxyvitamin D and hemoglobin A1c.

Summary: Updated literature on fracture epidemiology have identified important risk factors for fracture.