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Published in: Clinical Orthopaedics and Related Research® 7/2011

01-07-2011 | Symposium: AAOS/ORS/ABJS Musculoskeletal Healthcare Disparities Research Symposium

Defining Ethnic and Racial Differences in Osteoporosis and Fragility Fractures

Author: Jane A. Cauley, DrPH

Published in: Clinical Orthopaedics and Related Research® | Issue 7/2011

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Abstract

Background

Osteoporotic fractures are a major public health issue. The literature suggests there are variations in occurrence of fractures by ethnicity and race.

Questions/purposes

My purpose is to review current literature related to the influence of ethnicity and race on the (1) epidemiology of fracture; (2) prevalence of osteoporosis by bone mineral density; (3) consequences of osteoporotic hip fracture; (4) differences in risk fracture for fracture; and (5) disparities in screening, diagnosis, and treatment of osteoporosis.

Methods

Current literature was selectively reviewed related to osteoporosis, ethnicity, and race.

Results

Ethnicity and race, like sex, influence the epidemiology of fractures, with highest fracture rates in white women. Bone mineral density is higher in African Americans; however, these women are more likely to die after hip fracture, have longer hospital stays, and are less likely to be ambulatory at discharge. Consistent risk factors for fracture across ethnicity include older age, lower bone mineral density, previous history of fracture, and history of two or more falls. Ethnic and racial disparities exist in the screening, diagnosis, and treatment of osteoporosis.

Conclusions

Across ethnic and racial groups, more women experience fractures than the combined number of women who experience breast cancer, myocardial infarction, and coronary death in 1 year. Prevention efforts should target all women, irrespective of their race/ethnicity, especially if they have multiple risk factors.
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Metadata
Title
Defining Ethnic and Racial Differences in Osteoporosis and Fragility Fractures
Author
Jane A. Cauley, DrPH
Publication date
01-07-2011
Publisher
Springer-Verlag
Published in
Clinical Orthopaedics and Related Research® / Issue 7/2011
Print ISSN: 0009-921X
Electronic ISSN: 1528-1132
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1007/s11999-011-1863-5

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