Trends in hip fracture epidemiology in Australia: possible impact of bisphosphonates and hormone replacement therapy

Bone mineral density in patients with primary ovarian insufficiency: A systematic review and Meta-Analysis

INTRODUCTION

Premature menopause is a major complication of primary ovarian insufficiency (POI), and this loss is closely relates to bone mineral density (BMD). Previous research has indicated potential associations between BMD and POI. This study set out to provide the first systematic literature review and meta-analysison account of BMD content among women with POI.

METHODS

Studies including women with POI and controls were eligible from PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library and Web of Science databases (from their inception to April 2022). Two reviewers independently evaluated study eligibility. The meta-analysis was performed using the DerSimonian and Laird random effects model.

RESULTS

Ten studies featuring 578 women with POI and 480 controls were selected. BMD content of femur neck (SMD:-0.76; 95 % CI: -1.20 to -0.31; P = 0.0008), the BMD content of nondominating forearm (SMD:-0.67; 95 % CI: -1.15 to -0.18; P = 0.007) were significantly decreased in women with POI. However, no differences were seen in other regions (lumbar spine, total hip, hipneck).

DISCUSSION

The results of this study indicate that BMD content altered in patients with primary ovarian insufficiency. An implication of this is the possibility that hormone replacement therapy to minimize the prevalence of fracture morbidity and mortality associated with osteopenia in patients with POI.

Hip fracture incidence and post-fracture mortality in Victoria, Australia: a state-wide cohort study

Hip fractures are a major public health concern. Number of hip fractures cases increased by 20% from 2012 to 2018. Factors associated with post-fracture mortality included men, those who are frail, living in a non-metropolitan region, or residing in a residential aged care facility. Our results are useful for planning healthcare interventions.

PURPOSE

Hip fractures are a major public health concern in Australia. Data on hip fracture incidence and mortality are needed to plan and evaluate healthcare interventions. The aims of the study were to investigate (1) the time-trend in absolute number and incidence of first hip fractures, and (2) factors associated with mortality following first hip fractures in Victoria, Australia.

METHODS

A state-wide cohort study of all patients aged [Formula: see text] 50 years admitted to a Victorian hospital for first hip fracture between July 2012 and June 2018. Annual age-standardized incidence rates were calculated using population data from Australian Bureau of Statistics. Multivariate negative binomial regression was used to investigate factors associated with post-fracture mortality.

RESULTS

Overall, 31,578 patients had a first hip fracture, of whom two-thirds were women and 47% were [Formula: see text] 85 years old. Absolute annual numbers of first hip fractures increased by 20%. There was no significant change in age- and sex-adjusted incidence. In total, 8% died within 30 days and 25% within 1 year. Factors associated with 30-day mortality included age (≥ 85 years old versus 50-64 years old, mortality rate ratio [MRR] 8.05, 95% confidence interval [CI] 5.86-11.33), men (MRR 2.11, 95% CI 1.88-2.37), higher Hospital Frailty Risk Scores (high frailty versus no frailty, MRR 3.46, 95% CI 2.66-4.50), admission from a residential aged care facility (RACF) (MRR 2.28, 95% CI 1.85-2.82), and residing in a non-metropolitan region (MRR 1.22, 95% CI 1.09-1.38). The same factors were associated with 1-year mortality.

CONCLUSION

The absolute increase in hip fractures highlights the need for interventions to reduce fracture risk, especially for those at higher risk of post-fracture mortality, including men and those who are frail, living in a non-metropolitan region, or residing in a RACF.

Prevalence of osteoporosis and incidence of related fractures in developed economies in the Asia Pacific region: a systematic review

Robust data on osteoporosis in the Asia Pacific region could improve healthcare decision-making. Osteoporosis affects 10-30% of women aged 40 + , and up to 10% of men in 7 developed economies in Asia Pacific. Fractures affect 500-1000 adults aged 50 + per 100,000 person-years. Policymakers and clinicians must address this problem.

PURPOSE

Osteoporosis and associated fractures result in considerable morbidity, loss of productivity, early mortality, and increased healthcare expenses. Many countries in the Asia Pacific (AP) region, especially middle- and higher-income economies, are faced with aging and increasingly sedentary populations. It is critical to consolidate and analyze the available information on the prevalence and incidence of the disease in these countries.

METHODS

We systematically reviewed articles and gray literature for Australia, China, Hong Kong, Japan, Singapore, South Korea, and Taiwan. We searched PubMed, ScienceDirect, JSTOR, Cochrane, Google Scholar, and other databases for data published 2009-2018. We included articles with prevalence or incidence estimates for adults with osteoporosis or related fractures.

RESULTS

All locations had data available, but of widely varying quantity and quality. Most estimates for osteoporosis prevalence ranged from 10 to 30% for women ages 40 and older, and up to 10% for men. Osteoporotic fracture incidence typically ranged between 500 and 1000 per 100,000 person-years among adults aged 50 and older. Both outcomes typically increased with age and were more common among women.

CONCLUSION

Osteoporosis and associated fractures affect significant portions of the adult population in developed economies in the AP region. Governments and healthcare systems must consider how best to prevent and diagnose osteoporosis, and manage affected individuals, to reduce healthcare costs and mortality associated with fractures.

Trends in neck of femur fracture incidence in EU15+ Countries from 1990-2017

BACKGROUND

Neck of femur fractures (NOFF) pose significant socio-economic costs to society with a high degree of morbidity and mortality. Its incidence rate has been collated within the Global Burden of Disease (GBD) database; however, to date, no comparison across countries has been reported.

METHODS

NOFF age-standardised incidence rates (ASIR) per 100,000 population were extracted from the GBD database for European Union (EU) 15+ countries over the period 1990 to 2017. Joinpoint regression analysis of the data identified trends in ASIR and associated estimated annual percentage changes (EAPC). These were analysed by specified timeframe, country and gender.

RESULTS

Of the 19 EU15+ countries, 11 (58%) had overall increases in NOFF ASIRs in 2017 compared to 1990. The median ASIRs were 240/100,000 and 322/100,000 for males and females, respectively, in 1990. By 2017, this had increased to 259/100,000 and 325/100,000, respectively. Females consistently had relatively higher NOFF ASIRs with a median gender fracture gap of 62/100,000 in 2017. Males had a higher percentage change in increasing ASIRs, with a smaller percentage change in decreasing ASIRs for all included countries. The highest national ASIRs was observed in Australia, followed by Finland and Belgium. Conversely the Mediterranean countries demonstrated the lowest ASIRs, closely followed by the USA.

CONCLUSION

Despite significant advances in primary and secondary hip fracture prevention strategies over the 28-year study period, significant increases in NOFF ASIRs among most EU15+ countries were observed, especially with respect to gender.

Evaluation of Nottingham Hip Fracture Score, Age-Adjusted Charlson Comorbidity Index and the Physiological and Operative Severity Score for the enumeration of Mortality and morbidity as predictors of mortality in elderly neck of femur fracture patients

Background:

This study evaluated the use of several risk prediction models in estimating short- and long-term mortality following hip fracture in an Australian population.

Methods:

Data from 195 patients were retrospectively analysed and applied to three models of interest: the Nottingham Hip Fracture Score, the Age-Adjusted Charlson Comorbidity Index and the Physiological and Operative Severity Score for enUmeration of Mortality and Morbidity. The performance of these models was assessed with receiver operating characteristic curve as well as logistic regression modelling.

Results:

The median age of participants was 83 years and 69% were women. Ten percent of patients were deceased by 30 days, 25% at 6 months and 31% at 12 months post-operatively. While there was no statistically significant difference between the models, the Age-Adjusted Charlson Comorbidity Index had the largest area under the receiver operating characteristic curve for within 30 day and 12 month mortality, while the Nottingham Hip Fracture Score was largest for 6-month mortality. There was no evidence to suggest that the models were selecting a specific subgroup of our population, therefore, no indication was present to suggest that using multiple models would improve mortality prediction.

Conclusions:

While there was no statistically significant difference in mortality prediction, the Nottingham Hip Fracture Score is perhaps the best suited clinically, due to its ease of implementation. Larger prospective data collection across a variety of sites and its role in guiding clinical management remains an area of interest.

Retrospective analysis of the 13-year trend in acute and elective surgery for patients aged 60 years and over at Auckland City Hospital, New Zealand

BACKGROUND

As the worldwide population has aged, the number of surgical procedures performed on older patients has increased. It is not known whether this increase has been proportional to growth in the elderly population. The aim of this study was to assess the population-adjusted incidence of acute and elective general and orthopaedic surgery in older patients at a tertiary hospital in New Zealand.

METHODS

This was a retrospective study using routinely collected electronic data from Auckland District Health Board (DHB) and New Zealand Ministry of Health databases. Population estimates and numbers of general surgical and orthopaedic procedures from 2004 to 2016 were obtained. Annual age-specific incidence rates of surgical procedures were calculated and trends analysed using negative binomial regression.

RESULTS

The incidence of elective surgery increased by 5.35% annually from 2004 to 2016. The rate of increase is lower in the Māori population (2.14%) compared with other ethnic groups (4.22%-5.62%). The incidence of acute surgery in those aged 70 years and above decreased from 2004 to 2016. The European and other ethnic group had the highest rate of acute surgery, and higher rates of elective surgery than Pacific and Asian peoples.

CONCLUSION

The increasing number of elective general surgical and orthopaedic procedures performed on older patients in Auckland DHB is beyond what is expected for population growth alone. This has significant implication for clinicians, healthcare providers and governmental institutions. Ethnic differences are evident and warrants further attention as these may reflect disparities in access to surgery.

Comparison of hospitalised trends, treatment cost and health outcomes of fall-related hip fracture for people aged ≥ 65 years living in residential aged care and the community

This study compared hip fracture rates and health outcomes of older people living in residential aged care facilities (RACFs) to the community. The RACF resident age-standardised hospitalisation rate was five times higher than the community rate and declining. RACF residents experience overall worse health outcomes and survival post-hip fracture.

INTRODUCTION

To compare hospitalisation trends, characteristics and health outcomes following a fall-related hip fracture of older people living in residential aged care facilities (RACFs) to older people living in the community.

METHODS

A retrospective analysis of fall-related hip fracture hospitalisations of people aged ≥ 65 years during 1 July 2008 and 30 June 2013 in New South Wales (NSW), Australia's largest populated state. Linked hospitalisation, RACF and Aged Care Assessment Appraisal data collections were examined. Negative binomial regression examined the significance of hospitalisation temporal trends.

RESULTS

There were 28,897 hip fracture hospitalisations. One-third were of older people living in RACFs. The hospitalisation rate was 2180 per 100,000 (95%CI: 2097.0-2263.7) for RACF residents and 390 per 100,000 (95%CI 384.8-395.8) for older people living in the community. The hospitalisation rate for RACF residents was estimated to decline by 2.9% annually (95%CI: - 4.3 to - 1.5). Hospital treatment cost for hip fractures was AUD$958.5 million. Compared to older people living in the community, a higher proportion of RACF residents were aged ≥ 90 years (36.1% vs 17.2%), were female (75.3% vs 71.8%), had > 1 Charlson comorbidity (37.6% vs 35.6%) and 58.2% had dementia (vs 14.4%). RACF residents had fewer in-hospital rehabilitation episodes (18.7% vs 60.9%) and a higher proportion of unplanned readmissions (10.6% vs 9.1%) and in-hospital mortality (5.9% vs 3.3%) compared to older people living in the community.

CONCLUSIONS

RACF residents are a vulnerable cohort of older people who experience worse health outcomes and survival post-hip fracture than older people living in the community. Whether access to individualised hip fracture rehabilitation for RACF residents could improve their health outcomes should be examined.

Changes over time in hip fracture risk: Greater improvements in men compared to women

PURPOSE

The aim of this study was to determine whether there has been a change in the mean age and age-standardized incidence of minimal trauma hip fractures in the Newcastle and Lake Macquarie population of Australia between 1998 and 2015.

METHOD

Patients with neck of femur fractures over 50 who presented to the regional referral centre were retrospectively identified using the ICD-9 and ICD-10 coding system.

RESULTS

There were 233 and 308 eligible patients in 1998 and 2015, respectively. For females, the mean age for hip fracture of 83.2 years in 1998 was not significantly different from the mean age of 84.5 years in 2015 (P = .16). For males, the mean age for hip fracture was significantly older at 84.6 years in 2015 compared to 80.4 years in 1998 (P = .005). For females, the decrease in the rate of hip fracture from 1998 to 2015 was 13% and was weakly statistically significant (IRR = 0.86, P = .05). For males, there was a statistically significant decrease in the rate of hip fractures from 1998 to 2015 by 33% (IRR = 0.67, P = .001).

CONCLUSION

Our study shows a decrease in age-standardized rates of hip fractures for men and women and suggests that men are demonstrating a greater improvement in bone health compared to women.

Minodronate for the treatment of osteoporosis

Minodronate is a third-generation bisphosphonate that was developed and approved for clinical use in osteoporosis therapy in Japan. The mechanism of action for suppressing bone resorption is the inhibition of farnesyl pyrophosphate synthase, a key enzyme in the mevalonic acid metabolic pathway of osteoclasts, to induce apoptosis of the cells. Minodronate is the strongest inhibitor of bone resorption among the currently available oral bisphosphonates. Large randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind clinical trials have revealed an increase in bone mineral density of both the lumbar spine and femoral neck over 3 years of daily minodronate therapy and risk reduction in vertebral fractures over 2 years of therapy. The increase in bone mass and the prevention of vertebral fractures are similar to those with alendronate or risedronate. The incidence of adverse events, especially gastrointestinal disturbance, is the same as or less than that with weekly or daily alendronate or risedronate. The unique mechanism of action of minodronate via the inhibition of the P2X(2/3) receptor compared with other bisphosphonates may be an advantage in reducing low back pain in patients with osteoporosis. The monthly regimen of minodronate, introduced in 2011, is expected to have better patient adherence and longer persistence. In experimental animal models, minodronate preserved, or even ameliorated, bone microarchitectures, including microcracks and perforation of the trabeculae in the short term. The lowest incidence of bisphosphonate-related osteonecrosis of the jaw among all bisphosphonates and the lack of atypical femoral fractures attributed to its use to date, however, are partly because only a smaller population used minodronate than those using other bisphosphonates. To date, minodronate is available only in Japan. Hip fracture risk reduction has not been verified yet. More clinical studies on minodronate and its use in osteoporosis treatment, with a large number of subjects, should be conducted to verify hip fracture risk reduction and long-term results.

Fracture-related mortality in southern Sweden: A multiple cause of death analysis, 1998-2014

PURPOSE

To assess fracture-related mortality among adults (aged ≥20years) in southern Sweden using multiple causes of death approach.

METHODS

All death certificates (n=201 488) in adults recorded in the region of Skåne from 1998 to 2014 were examined. We identified fracture-related deaths and computed mortality rates by sex, age group, and fracture site. Temporal trends were evaluated using joinpoint regression and associated causes were identified by age- and sex-adjusted observed/expected ratios.

RESULTS

Fractures were mentioned on 6 226 (3.1%) death certificates, with majority of these occurred among women (60%) and those aged≥80years (77%). While hip was the most common site overall (61% of all fracture-related deaths), skull was the most common site in people <60years (60% of all fracture-related deaths). Proportion of death certificates mentioning fracture was stable in women but increased by 0.4% (95% CI: 0.1 to 0.6) in men between 1998-2002 and 2010-2014. The mean age at death was higher in death certificates mentioning fracture than those without and this gap widened over time. The mean age-standardized fracture-related mortality rate was 18.8 (14.0) per 100 000 person-year in men (women) and declined by 1.5% (1.3%) per year during 1998-2014. Injuries (84.6%) and cardiovascular disorders (64.6%) were the most common comorbidities on death certificates mentioning fracture.

CONCLUSIONS

Fracture is a contributing cause of death in more than 3% of all deaths in southern Sweden with hip in lead among older and skull fracture among younger people. There was a slight increase in proportion of deaths associated with fracture in men but not women during the study period.

Trends in and relation between hip fracture incidence and osteoporosis medication utilization and prices in Estonia in 2004-2015

Osteoporosis medicines reduce osteoporotic fractures. There is a very strong negative correlation between the consumption of medicines and the price of an average daily dose indicating that affordability is a key factor that could increase consumption of antiosteoporotic medicines and, through that, reduce fractures.

PURPOSE

Osteoporosis is a major cause of morbidity and mortality in the modern world. Our study aims to describe the trends in incidence of hip fractures in relation to drug utilization patterns and the average price of antiosteoporotic medicines in Estonia.

METHODS

Data on hip fractures was obtained from the medical claims database of Estonian Health Insurance Fund (EHIF). Consumption and price data was obtained from the Estonian State Agency of Medicines (SAM).Consumption is presented using WHO defined daily doses methodology, and the prices reflect the average wholesale price of medicines.

RESULTS

From 2004 to 2010 there was a non-significant increasing trend in standardized hip fracture incidence in Estonia, but from 2010 to 2015, the trend turned to a significant decrease of 4.5% per year. The consumption of osteoporosis medication increased significantly from 2004 to 2009 by yearly average of 41.2%. After 2009, the consumption levelled. On contrast, the average price of one daily dose of osteoporosis medication decreased significantly from 2004 to 2009 by 16.9% per year and the decrease also levelled after 2009. This gives a very strong negative correlation of -0.93 (p < 0.001) between the consumption of antiosteoporotic medication and the average price of a daily dose of medication during the study period.

CONCLUSIONS

The statistically significant decline of standardized incidence of hip fractures from 2010 onward could at least in part be the result of the high increase in consumption of antiosteoporotic medicines which in turn is strongly negatively correlated with the average price of osteoporosis medicines.

The changing face of fractures of the hip in Northern Ireland: a 15-year review

AIMS

We reviewed all patients who sustained a fracture of the hip and were treated in Northern Ireland over a period of 15 years to identify trends in incidence, the demographics of the patients, the rates of mortality, the configuration of the fracture and the choice of implant.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Since 01 January 2001 data about every fracture of the hip sustained in an adult have been collected centrally in Northern Ireland. All adults with such a fracture between 2000 and 2015 were included in the study. Temporal changes in their demographics, the mode of treatment, and outcomes including mortality were analysed.

RESULTS

The incidence of fractures of the hip, in Northern Ireland, rose from 54 in 100 000 in 2000 to 86 in 100 000 in 2015. If these trends continue, we predict this rising to 128 in 100 000 in 2030. We found that these patients are becoming older and increasingly frail, as assessed by the American Association of Anesthesiology grade. Complex extracapsular fractures have become more common since 2009, which may explain the increased use of cephalomedullary nails. Despite increasing frailty, the 30-day and 12-month rates of mortality fell significantly (p = 0.002 and 0.001, respectively).

CONCLUSION

Fractures of the hip are becoming more common and more complex in an aging, increasingly frail population. We expect these trends to continue. This will place an increasing economic and clinical strain on healthcare systems. Forward planning is essential to put systems in place that can deal with the increasing demand. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2017;99-B:1223-31.

Secular trend in the incidence of hip fracture in Catalonia, Spain, 2003-2014

Objectives

to describe the secular trend and seasonal variation in the incidence of hip fracture (HF) over 12 years (2003-2014) in Catalonia, the community with the highest incidence of HF in Spain.

Methods

data about age, gender, type of fracture and month of hospitalisation among patients aged 65 years and older discharged with a diagnosis of HF were collected. Crude and age-standardised annual incidence rate were reckoned. To analyse HF trend, the age/sex-adjusted average annual change in incidence (incidence rate ratio, IRR) was calculated.

Results

we identified 100,110 HF in the period, with an increase of 16.9% (women 13.4%; men 28.4%). Trochanteric fractures were the most frequent (55.8%). The crude incidence rate (per 100,000 population) decreased from 677.2 (95% confidence interval (95% CI) 662.0-692.7) to 657.6 (95% CI 644.0-671.5). The standardised incidence rate decreased from 754.0 (95% CI 738.6-769.3) to 641.5 (95% CI 627.7-655.3), with a sharp decrease in women (-16.8%) while it was stable in men. The incidence by type of fracture was stable. The trend throughout the period showed a slight decrease with IRR 0.99 (95% CI 0.98-0.99; P = 0.025). The incidence was stable in the oldest group (+85 years), while there was a downward trend in the younger groups. A significant seasonal pattern was observed, with more cases in winter and less in summer (spring as reference).

Conclusions

the secular trend reveals a decreasing incidence of HF although the absolute number has increased in the last 12 years in Catalonia. Trochanteric fractures were the most prevalent and a seasonal pattern was observed, with more cases in winter.

Falling age-related incidence of hip fractures in women, but not men, in Northern Ireland: 2001-2011

Hip fractures place a large burden on healthcare and determining the variation in incidence is important to plan resources. We found, in Northern Ireland, that the age-related incidence for women is declining but the incidence for men and the total number of fractures remains static as the elderly population increases.

INTRODUCTION

Hip fractures place a significant burden on healthcare systems throughout the world. Recent studies have shown that the incidence is starting to decline or plateau. We aimed to study the incidence of hip fractures in 2001 and 2011 within Northern Ireland and hope to guide further service provision.

METHODS

The years 2001 and 2011 were selected as accurate census population data was available. The Hospital Inpatient System (HIS) database was used to collect the data and the search was carried out by a statistician using ICD codes S72.0 and S72.1.

RESULTS

The total incidence of hip fractures in the population aged 50 and over fell from 358 per 100,000 to 274 per 100,000. In females, the incidence fell from 513 to 412 per 100,000. In males, the incidence increased from 172 to 178 per 100,000. The total number of hip fractures remained static (1737 in 2001 and 1739 in 2011) as a result of an increase in the elderly population. Incidence and total number of femoral neck fractures (S72.0) declined while the incidence and total number of pertrochanteric fractures (S72.1) increased.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results are in keeping with the declining trend in hip fracture incidence in many Western countries, though we found that this is only true for women. The exact reasons for this remain unclear but are likely to be multifactorial. In the future, the number of fractures may increase further given the increasingly elderly population and further provision particularly for patients with pertrochanteric fractures will be required. Increased awareness, diagnosis and treatment of males with osteoporosis should be prioritised.

Declining trends in the incidence of hip fractures in people aged 65years or over in years 2000-2011

BACKGROUND

The aim of this study was to explore hip fracture (HFx) incidence in the Veneto Region of Italy, looking at potential differences with the national data.

METHODS

We analyzed HFx incidence for people aged 65years or over, in years 2000-2011, using data from the Regional Hospitalization Database. Patients were stratified by sex, calendar year and 5-year age class. Data for the single provinces of the Region were also obtained. Absolute number of HFx, crude incidence for 10,000 inhabitants and age-standardized fracture rates were calculated.

RESULTS

During the study period, there were 53,917 hospitalizations for HFx (77.7% in females). In the whole 11year period of observation, the absolute HFx number increased by 17.7% in males and 10.6% females, respectively. However, age-standardized incidence rates declined by 18% in the same period (IRR 0.82, 95% CI 0.78-0.87). This decreasing trend was almost identical through all the age-cohorts up to 84years. In the whole study period, HFx incidence was lower for Padova (IRR 0.63, 95% CI 0.60-0.66) and Verona (IRR 0.66, 95% CI 0.63-0.70) provinces as compared to the others. This regional profile was quite different with respect to the data published, for the same calendar years, for Italy as a whole, in spite of an almost identical demography of the population.

CONCLUSIONS

HFx incidence is declining in the Veneto Region of Italy. Further studies, aimed to investigate factors involved in this figure are needed.

Hip fracture incidence 2003-2013 and projected cases until 2050 in Austria: a population-based study

OBJECTIVES

Elevated hip fracture incidence is a major public health problem looming to aggravate in industrialized countries due to demographic developments. We report hip fracture incidence and expected future cases from Vorarlberg, the westernmost province of Austria, results potentially representative of Central European populations.

METHODS

Crude and standardized hip fracture incidence rates in Vorarlberg 2003-2013 are reported. Based on the age-specific incidence in 2013 or trends 2003-2013, we predict hip fractures till 2050.

RESULTS

Female age-standardized hip fracture incidence decreased 2005-2013, whereas for men, the trend was rather unclear. Uncorrected forecasts indicate that by 2050, female and male cases will each have more than doubled from 2015 in all demographic core scenarios. Corrected by incidence trends before 2013, cases are expected to drop among women but rise among men.

CONCLUSIONS

We anticipate rising hip fracture numbers in Vorarlberg within the next decades, unless prevention programs that presumably account for decreasing incidence rates, particularly among women since 2005, take further effect to counteract the predicted steady increase due to demographic changes. Concomitantly, augmented endeavors to target the male population by these programs are needed.

Current trends and future projections of hip fracture in South Korea using nationwide claims data

Incidence of hip fracture increased in Korean populations over age 50 between 2008 and 2012, and the number of fractures was predicted to increase by 1.4 times by 2025. This is important information for public health planning.

INTRODUCTION

The purposes of this study were to evaluate the trends in the incidence and mortality of hip fracture between 2008 and 2012 and predict the number of hip fractures in Korea through 2025 using nationwide claims data.

METHODS

The data managed by the National Health Insurance Service were used to identify the hip fractures in patients aged >50 years between 2008 and 2012. Projections of hip fractures were conducted using the Poisson distribution from 2016 to 2025 in Korea.

RESULTS

The incidence of hip fractures (per 100,000) increased by 14.1 % over the 5 years of the study, by 15.8 % in women and 10.9 % in men; the older age group showed a steep rise and shift in the incidence from 2008 to 2012. The cumulative mortality rates at 1 year after hip fractures were 17.2 % (3575/20,849) in 2008 and 16.0 % (4547/28,426) in 2012. Overall standardized mortality ratios (SMRs) for hip fracture were higher in men (11.93) than in women (11.22) and were higher than those in the general population in all age groups. In 2016, the total number of hip fractures was estimated to increase an overall of 1.4 times by 2025.

CONCLUSIONS

The incidence of hip fracture continues to increase, and the related mortality is still high, although it has decreased over time. The socioeconomic burden of hip fracture is expected to increase in Korea along with the increased estimated number of fractures. Nationwide strategies should include attempts to reduce the future socioeconomic burdens of hip fractures.

The Effect of Age on Fracture Risk: A Population-Based Cohort Study

Aim. To precisely estimate the effect of age on the risk of fracture hospitalisation among the Western Australia population over the life course. Methods. This population-based cohort study used hospital data on fractures for the period January 1991 to January 2013 among Western Australians born between 1915 and 1990. Results. The average incidence rates (per 10,000 person-years) of fracture hospitalisation (95% confidence interval) were 50.12 (49.90, 50.35), 55.14 (54.82, 55.48), and 45.02 (44.71, 45.32) for both males and females, males only, and females only, respectively. The age-specific rate of fracture hospitalisation (in natural logarithm form) in adults (>18 years) was well predicted by age at its 1st, 2nd, and 3rd power in males with an adjusted R-squared of 0.98 and p < 0.001. For females, the trend was also well predicted by its 1st and 2nd powers (the 3rd power term of age was removed due to its p value > 0.8) with an adjusted R-squared of 0.99 and p < 0.001. Conclusions. Overall trends in age and gender specific risk of fracture among the Western Australian population were similar to estimates reported from previous studies. The trend in fracture hospitalisation risk over the life course can be almost fully explained by age.

Demographic factors in hip fracture incidence and mortality rates in California, 2000-2011

Background

Hip fractures result in both health and cost burdens from a public health perspective and have a major impact on the health care system in the USA. The purpose was to examine whether there were systematic differences in hip fracture incidence and 30-, 90-, and 365-day mortality after hip fracture in the California population as a function of age, gender, and race/ethnicity from 2000–2011.

Methods

This was a population-based study from 2000 to 2011 using data from the California Office of Statewide Health and Planning and Development (OSHPD, N = 317,677), California State Death Statistical Master File records (N = 224,899), and the US Census 2000 and 2010. There were a total of 317,677 hospital admissions for hip fractures over the 12-year span and 24,899 deaths following hip fractures. All participants without linkage (substituted for social security) numbers were excluded from mortality rate calculations. Variation in incidence and mortality rates across time, gender, race/ethnicity, and age were assessed using Poisson regression models. Odds ratio and 95 % confidence intervals are provided.

Results

The incidence rate of hip fractures decreased between 2000 and 2011 (odds ratio (OR) = 0.98, 95 % confidence interval (CI) 0.98, 0.98). Mortality rates also decreased over time. There were gender, race/ethnicity, and age group differences in both incidence and mortality rates.

Conclusions

Males were half as likely to sustain a hip fracture, but their mortality within a year of the procedure is almost twice the rate than women. As age increased, the prevalence of hip fracture increased dramatically, but mortality did not increase as steeply. Caucasians were more likely to sustain a hip fracture and to die within 1 year after a hip fracture. The disparities in subpopulations will allow for targeted population interventions and opportunities for further research.

Antiresorptive therapy and risk of mortality and refracture in osteoporosis-related hip fracture: a nationwide study

We analyzed the association of bisphosphonate therapy with mortality and hip refracture incidence among osteoporosis-related hip fracture patients in Austria. Mortality was lower in primarily female bisphosphonate users, while hip refracture incidence was generally elevated relative to controls, indicating beneficial effects of bisphosphonates other than on bone.

INTRODUCTION

The purpose of this study was to analyze mortality and hip refracture risk in osteoporotic hip fracture patients with and without antiosteoporotic medication.

METHODS

We retrospectively analyzed data on 31,668 Austrian patients ≥50 years with a hip fracture between July 2008 and December 2010 for antiosteoporotic drug treatment with respect to outcome parameters all-cause mortality, hip refracture incidence, and hip refracture-free days. Outcomes when bisphosphonate (BP) treatment was begun before or after fracture were compared with an age- and sex-matched hip fracture control without antiosteoporotic medication.

RESULTS

27.69 % of patients (33.01 % of women, 13.13 % of men) were prescribed antiosteoporotic medication, primarily BPs. Females having initiated BP treatment before first fracture had lower odds for mortality 1 and 3 year(s) post-fracture, whereas hip refracture incidence under pre-fracture BP initiation was generally higher. Treatment that was started after fracture, however, entailed significantly lower mortality hazards for both genders (HR 0.43, 95 %CI 0.36-0.52, p < 0.0001 after 1 year) but significantly higher hip refracture incidence except for patients aged 50-69 years and more hip refracture free days for females. Hip refractures overall amounted to 29.22/1000 patient years differing significantly between women and men (31.03 vs. 23.89, respectively, p < 0.0001), and longer hip refracture free survival was observed for women than for men (499 vs. 466 median days, respectively, p < 0.0001).

CONCLUSIONS

Although BP use is associated with reduced mortality after hip fracture, notably among women, hip refracture incidences are likewise elevated, which is most likely accounted for by a high probability of BP prescription to more comorbid patients suffering from more severe osteoporosis. Concomitantly, through possible effects other than on bone, BPs might be able to curtail mortality. Male hip fracture patients' low treatment frequency in particular reflects underdiagnosis and undertreatment of osteoporosis in Austria.

The Epidemiology of Incident Fracture from Cradle to Senescence

To reduce the burden of fracture, not only does bone fragility need to be addressed, but also injury prevention. Thus, fracture epidemiology irrespective of degree of trauma is informative. We aimed to determine age-and-sex-specific fracture incidence rates for the Barwon Statistical Division, Australia, 2006-2007. Using radiology reports, incident fractures were identified for 5342 males and 4512 females, with incidence of 210.4 (95 % CI 204.8, 216.2) and 160.0 (155.3, 164.7)/10,000/year, respectively. In females, spine (clinical vertebral), hip (proximal femoral) and distal forearm fractures demonstrated a pattern of stable incidence through early adult life, with an exponential increase beginning in postmenopausal years for fractures of the forearm followed by spine and hip. A similar pattern was observed for the pelvis, humerus, femur and patella. Distal forearm, humerus, other forearm and ankle fractures showed incidence peaks during childhood and adolescence. For males, age-related changes mimicked the female pattern for fractures of the spine, hip, ribs, pelvis and humerus. Incidence at these sites was generally lower for males, particularly among the elderly. A similar childhood-adolescent peak was seen for the distal forearm and humerus. For ankle fractures, there was an increase during childhood and adolescence but this extended into early adult life; in contrast to females, there were no further age-related increases. An adolescent-young adult peak incidence was observed for fractures of the face, clavicle, carpal bones, hand, fingers, foot and toe, without further age-related increases. Examining patterns of fracture provides the evidence base for monitoring temporal changes in fracture burden, and for identifying high-incidence groups to which fracture prevention strategies could be directed.

Regional variability in changes in the incidence of hip fracture in the Spanish population (2000-2012)

The objective is to analyse the evolution of the incidence of hip fracture in the female population of Spain from 2000 to 2012 and to establish the possible changes which may have been seen over this period of time, including the trends in the different regions of the country.

INTRODUCTION

Fragility-related hip fractures are considered to be the fractures of greatest significance to public health due to their high degree of morbidity and mortality. The change in their incidence, both in absolute values and when adjusted for age, is the subject of debate. The objective of this article is to describe the changes in the rates of hip fracture in Spain by autonomous community between the years 2000 and 2012.

METHODS

Using the data from the Spanish Minimum Basic Data Set, in which are all the recorded cases of women with a principal diagnosis of hip fracture, the incidence rates by age group and by autonomous community were obtained. Poisson distribution or negative binomial regressions were carried out to estimate the average annual change over the time period analysed.

RESULTS

There have been statistically significant changes in the trends of rates of incidence for all age groups of women over 65 years of age. The annual reduction was 2.2% for women of 65-74 years of age and less for those between 75 and 84. The rates of incidence for those over 85 increased annually by 0.58%.

CONCLUSIONS

Hip fractures continue to increase in absolute numbers, although if the rates are adjusted for age, a downward trend is seen in certain age groups. These findings have various origins, although in the absence of great changes in population structure, we believe that drug treatments for osteoporosis may play a role. There is variability in the change in incidence of hip fractures in different parts of the country. Further studies are required to be able to identify the causes.

Trend in hip fracture incidence and mortality in Korea: a prospective cohort study from 2002 to 2011

This prospective longitudinal cohort study was to assess the 10-yr hip fracture incidence and mortality trend of person ≥50 yr of age between 2002 and 2011 of eight hospitals in Jeju Island. Sex-specific incidence rate (per 100,000 person-years) were calculated based on that estimated for the population in the United States in 2008. Poisson and logistic regressions were used to examine trends in incidence and mortality. There was a 101% increase in the number of hip fractures from 151 in 2002 to 304 in 2011. The crude incidence of hip fractures in the Jeju population ≥50 yr of age increased from 126.6/100,000 to 183.7/100,000. The fracture incidence in the population standardized to the 2008 population in the United States increased from 100.6/100,000 for men and 194.4/100,000 for women in 2002 to 114.2/100,000 for men and 278.4/100,000 for women in 2011. The annual increasing incidence rate of hip fracture was 4.3% (5.3% in women and 2.2% in men). Poisson regression did not show significant trends in the mortality rates for all age groups or for both genders. The total number of hip fractures increased two-fold and the incidence rate of hip fractures increased markedly during the 10-yr study period.

Trends in fall-related hospitalisations in older people living in aged care facilities

The aim is to describe the trends in fall-related hospitalisations for older people living in aged care facilities. Over the 9-year period investigated, there were dramatic increases in fall-related hospitalisations. This worrying trend highlights that we may not be addressing falls in aged care facilities sufficiently.

INTRODUCTION

The purposes of this study are to describe the trends in fall-related hospitalisations in older people living in aged care facilities and to compare these trends across different demographic groups and injury types.

METHODS

This study was conducted in Australia's second most populous state, Victoria. Aged care facilities in Australia provide high- and low-level nursing care for people who can no longer live independently. Included in this study were hospital admitted episodes of care which met the following criteria: age 65+ years at admission, an admission source indicating a transfer from an aged care facility, an external cause indicating a fall, a care type of 'acute', a Victorian postcode of residence, and an admission date between July 1, 2003 and June 30, 2012 (inclusive). Rate denominator data were Victorian aged care bed years.

RESULTS

Over the last 9 years, 7098 episodes of care met the inclusion criteria. The age-standardised rate of hospitalisation increased by 11% (95% confidence interval [CI] 9%, 12%) per year. Serious injury increased at a slower pace than less serious injury. The slowest rate increase was for hip fracture (incidence rate ratio: 1.03 (95% CI 1.00, 1.06), the most common fracture type.

CONCLUSIONS

Rates of fall-related hospitalisations in older people living in aged care facilities increased at a dramatic pace in the period studied. The relative slower increase in hip fracture may point towards changing referral practices, possible success in osteoporosis management, body mass index increases in older people living in aged care facilities or a combination of these factors.

Nationwide cohort study of hip fractures: time trends in the incidence rates and projections up to 2035

SUMMARY

A growing elderly population is expected worldwide, and the burden of hip fractures on health care system will continue to increase. By 2035, there will be a 2.7-fold increase in the number of hip fractures in Taiwan. The study provides quantitative basis for the future distribution of medical resources.

INTRODUCTION

Hip fractures have long been recognized as a major public health concern. The study aimed to determine time trends in the incidence of hip fractures and to forecast the number of hip fractures expected in Taiwan up to 2035.

METHODS

A nationwide survey was conducted using data from the Taiwan National Health Insurance Research Database from 2004 to 2011. A total of 141,397 hip fractures were identified, with a mean of 17,675 fractures/year. Annual incidences of hip fractures were calculated and tested for trends. Projections of the incidence rates of hip fractures and bed days associated with hip fractures were calculated using Poisson regression on the historical incidence rates in combination with population projections from 2012 to 2035.

RESULTS

The incidence rates of hip fracture during 2004-2011 were 317 and 211 per 100,000 person-years among women and men, respectively. Over this 8-year period, the age-standardized incidence of hip fracture decreased by 13.4% among women and 12.2% among men. Despite the decline in the age-standardized incidence, the absolute number of hip fractures increased owing to the aging population. The number of hip fractures is expected to increase from 18,338 in 2010 to 50,421 in 2035-a 2.7-fold increase. The number of bed days for 2010 and 2035 was estimated at 161,248 and 501,995, respectively, representing a 3.1-fold increase.

CONCLUSIONS

The socioeconomic impact of hip fractures will be high in the near future. This study provides a quantitative basis for future policy decisions to serve this need.

Mortality after hip fracture in Austria 2008-2011

Osteoporosis-related hip fractures represent a substantial cause of mortality and morbidity in industrialized countries like Austria. Identification of groups at high risk for mortality after hip fracture is crucial for health policy decisions. To determine in-hospital, long-term, and excess mortality after osteoporosis-related hip fracture in Austrian patients, we conducted a retrospective cohort analysis of pseudonymized invoice data from Austrian social insurance authorities covering roughly 98 % of the entire population. The data set included 31,668 subjects aged 50 years and above sustaining a hip fracture between July 2008 and December 2010 with follow-up until June 2011, and an age-, gender-, and regionally matched control population without hip fractures (56,320 subjects). Kaplan-Meier and Cox hazard regression analyses served to determine unadjusted and adjusted mortality rates: Unadjusted all-cause 1-year mortality amounted to 20.2 % (95 % CI: 19.7-20.7 %). Males had significantly higher long-term, in-hospital, and excess mortality rates than females, but younger males exhibited lower excess mortality than their female counterparts. Advanced age correlated with increased long-term and in-hospital mortality, but lower excess mortality. Excess mortality, particularly in males, was highest in the first 6 months after hip fracture, but remained statistically significantly elevated throughout the observation period of 3 years. Longer hospital stay per fracture was correlated with mortality reduction in older patients and in patients with more subsequent fractures. In conclusion, more efforts are needed to identify causes and effectively prevent excess mortality especially in male osteoporosis patients.

Evolution of the hip fracture population: time to consider the future? A retrospective observational analysis

OBJECTIVE

To examine how the population with fractured neck of femur has changed over the last decade and determine whether they have evolved to become a more physically and socially dependent cohort.

DESIGN

Retrospective cohort study of prospectively collected Standardised Audit of Hip Fractures of Europe data entered on to an institutional hip fracture registry.

PARTICIPANTS

10 044 consecutive hip fracture admissions (2000-2012).

SETTING

A major trauma centre in the UK.

RESULTS

There was a generalised increase in the number of admissions between 2000 (n=740) and 2012 (n=810). This increase was non-linear and best described by a quadratic curve. Assuming no change in the prevalence of hip fracture over the next 20 years, our hospital is projected to treat 871 cases in 2020 and 925 in 2030. This represents an approximate year-on-year increase of just over 1%. There was an increase in the proportion of male admissions over the study period (2000: 174 of 740 admissions (23.5%); 2012: 249 of 810 admissions (30.7%)). This mirrored national census changes within the geographical area during the same period. During the study period there were significant increases in the numbers of patients admitted from their own home, the proportion of patients requiring assistance to mobilise, and the proportion of patients requiring help with basic activities of daily living (all p<0.001). There was also a twofold to fourfold increase in the proportion of patients admitted with a diagnosis of cardiovascular disease, renal disease, diabetes and polypharmacy (use of >4 prescribed medications; all p<0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

The expanding hip fracture population has increasingly complex medical, social and rehabilitation care needs. This needs to be recognised so that appropriate healthcare strategies and service planning can be implemented. This epidemiological analysis allows projections of future service need in terms of patient numbers and dependency.

Age-period-cohort effects in the incidence of hip fractures: political and economic events are coincident with changes in risk

An age-period cohort model was fitted to analyse time effects on hip fracture incidence rates by sex (Portugal, 2000-2008). Rates increased exponentially with age (age effect). Incidence rates decreased after 2004 for women and were random for men (period effect). New but comprehensive fluctuations in risk were coincident with major political/economic changes (cohort effect).

INTRODUCTION

Healthcare improvements have allowed prevention but have also increased life expectancy, resulting in more people being at risk. Our aim was to analyse the separate effects of age, period and cohort on incidence rates by sex in Portugal, 2000-2008.

METHODS

From the National Hospital Discharge Register, we selected admissions (aged ≥ 49 years) with hip fractures (ICD9-CM, codes 820.x) caused by low/moderate trauma (falls from standing height or less), readmissions and bone cancer cases. We calculated person-years at risk using population data from Statistics Portugal. To identify period and cohort effects for all ages, we used an age-period-cohort model (1-year intervals) followed by generalised additive models with a negative binomial distribution of the observed incidence rates of hip fractures.

RESULTS

There were 77,083 hospital admissions (77.4 % women). Incidence rates increased exponentially with age for both sexes (age effect). Incidence rates fell after 2004 for women and were random for men (period effect). There was a general cohort effect similar in both sexes; risk of hip fracture altered from an increasing trend for those born before 1930 to a decreasing trend following that year. Risk alterations (not statistically significant) coincident with major political and economic change in the history of Portugal were observed around birth cohorts 1920 (stable-increasing), 1940 (decreasing-increasing) and 1950 (increasing-decreasing only among women).

CONCLUSIONS

Hip fracture risk was higher for those born during major economically/politically unstable periods. Although bone quality reflects lifetime exposure, conditions at birth may determine future risk for hip fractures.

Changes in frailty-related characteristics of the hip fracture population and their implications for healthcare services: evidence from Quebec, Canada

SUMMARY

This study provides evidence that a number of frailty-related characteristics (older age, de novo admission to long-term care (LTC), comorbidities [Charlson Index, osteoporosis, osteoporosis risk factors, sarcopenia risk factors, and dementia]) have increased in the hip fracture population from 2001-2008. This will have significant impact on community resources, as the number of people discharged to the community is also increasing.

INTRODUCTION

The aim of this study is to estimate secular changes in the prevalence of selected frailty-related characteristics among the hip fracture population in the Canadian province of Quebec (2001-2008) and the potential impact of these changes on healthcare services.

METHODS

The Quebec hospitalization database was used to identify nontraumatic hip fractures for the purposes of calculating age- and sex-specific rates. Also estimated were time trends for selected frailty-related characteristics and discharge destinations.

RESULTS

A significant decline in fracture rates was evident for all age groups except for those <65; sex differences were also observed. Almost all frailty-related characteristics increased over time, ranging from 2 to 14 % per year, which translates to an estimated increase from 16 to 112 %, over the study period. For those whose prior living arrangement was LTC, rates of hip fractures declined significantly (women OR = 0.93, 0.91-0.95; men OR = 0.97, 0.94-0.99). In-hospital mortality and discharge to inpatient rehabilitation decreased, while discharges back to community and to LTC increased.

CONCLUSIONS

Although hip fracture rates decreased for older hip fracture patients, the absolute number and prevalence of specific frailty-related characteristics increased. Policy makers should review care models to ensure that adequate resources are provided to the community to offset the expected increase in demand arising from ongoing changes in patients' characteristics.

Trends in hip fracture rates in Canada: an age-period-cohort analysis

Age-standardized rates of hip fracture in Canada declined during the period 1985 to 2005. We investigated whether this incidence pattern is explained by period effects, cohort effects, or both. All hospitalizations during the study period with primary diagnosis of hip fracture were identified. Age- and sex-specific hip fracture rates were calculated for nineteen 5-year age groups and four 5-year calendar periods, resulting in 20 birth cohorts. The effect of age, calendar period, and birth cohort on hip fracture rates was assessed using age-period-cohort models as proposed by Clayton and Schiffers. From 1985 to 2005, a total of 570,872 hospitalizations for hip fracture were identified. Age-standardized rates for hip fracture have progressively declined for females and males. The annual linear decrease in rates per 5-year period were 12% for females and 7% for males (both p < 0.0001). Significant birth cohort effects were also observed for both sexes (p < 0.0001). Cohorts born before 1950 had a higher risk of hip fracture, whereas those born after 1954 had a lower risk. After adjusting for age and constant annual linear change (drift term common to both period and cohort effects), we observed a significant nonlinear birth cohort effect for males (p = 0.0126) but not for females (p = 0.9960). In contrast, the nonlinear period effect, after adjustment for age and drift term, was significant for females (p = 0.0373) but not for males (p = 0.2515). For males, we observed no additional nonlinear period effect after adjusting for age and birth cohort, whereas for females, we observed no additional nonlinear birth cohort effect after adjusting for age and period. Although hip fracture rates decreased in both sexes, different factors may explain these changes. In addition to the constant annual linear decrease, nonlinear birth cohort effects were identified for males, and calendar period effects were identified for females as possible explanations.

Osteoporotic hip fractures: bisphosphonates sales and observed turning point in trend. A population-based retrospective study

The aim is to examine the temporal trends of hip fracture incidence in Portugal by sex and age groups, and explore the relation with anti-osteoporotic medication. From the National Hospital Discharge Database, we selected from 1st January 2000 to 31st December 2008, 77,083 hospital admissions (77.4% women) caused by osteoporotic hip fractures (low energy, patients over 49years-age), with diagnosis codes 820.x of ICD 9-CM. The 2001 Portuguese population was used as standard to calculate direct age-standardized incidence rates (ASIR) (100,000 inhabitants). Generalized additive and linear models were used to evaluate and quantify temporal trends of age specific rates (AR), by sex. We identified 2003 as a turning point in the trend of ASIR of hip fractures in women. After 2003, the ASIR in women decreased on average by 10.3 cases/100,000 inhabitants, 95% CI (-15.7 to -4.8), per 100,000 anti-osteoporotic medication packages sold. For women aged 65-69 and 75-79 we identified the same turning point. However, for women aged over 80, the year 2004 marked a change in the trend, from an increase to a decrease. Among the population aged 70-74 a linear decrease of incidence rate (95% CI) was observed in both sexes, higher for women: -28.0% (-36.2 to -19.5) change vs -18.8%, (-32.6 to -2.3). The abrupt turning point in the trend of ASIR of hip fractures in women is compatible with an intervention, such as a medication. The trends were different according to gender and age group, but compatible with the pattern of bisphosphonates sales.

A decreasing trend in fall-related hip fracture incidence in Victoria, Australia

In Victoria, Australia, the age-standardised incidence of fall-related hip fracture hospitalisations decreased significantly by 25% over the period 1998/1999-2008/2009. Significant decreases in fall-related hip fractures were observed in males and females, across all 5-year age groups, in Australian-born and overseas-born Victorians, in all socio-economic quintiles and in community-dwelling older people.

INTRODUCTION

The study aim was to investigate trends in the incidence of fall-related and hip fracture hospitalisations among Victorians aged 65 years and older overall and by age, gender, country of birth, socio-economic status (SES) and location of the event (home, residential care institution, etc.) over the 11-year period 1998/1999 to 2008/2009.

METHODS

Annual counts and age-standardised rates for fall-related hospitalisations among people aged 65 years and older were estimated using Victorian hospital admissions data. The statistical significance of changes in trends over time were analysed using a log-linear regression model of the rate data assuming a Poisson distribution of cases.

RESULTS

Although the age-standardised incidence of fall-related hospitalisations increased significantly by 13% (95% confidence interval [CI], 9% to 18%) in Victoria, the age-standardised incidence of fall-related hip fracture hospitalisations decreased from 600/100,000 in 1998/1999 to 467/100,000 in 2008/2009 - an estimated overall reduction of 25% (95% CI, -29% to -22%). By contrast, the age-standardised incidence of fall-related hospitalisations for fractures at other body sites either increased significantly or showed no significant change. Significant decreases in fall-related hip fractures were observed in both males and females, across all 5-year age groups, in both Australian-born and overseas-born Victorians, in all socio-economic quintiles and in community-dwelling older people but not in people living in residential care facilities.

CONCLUSION

Despite the downward trend in the age-standardised incidence of fall-related hip fractures in Victoria, the burden of fall-related and hip fracture hospitalisations on health care systems and the community is set to escalate due to the ageing of the Victorian population.

Monitoring progress in the management of hip fractures in South Australia, Australia

The aim of this study was to assess trends in hip fracture rates and outcomes following hospitalisation for hip fracture. Hip fracture admissions increased over the study period. Men fared worst in terms of higher absolute mortality. Refracture rates and male health outcomes require further attention.

PURPOSE

The aim of this study was to assess trends in hip fracture rates and outcomes following hospitalisation for hip fracture in South Australia (SA).

METHODS

Analysis of routinely collected, linked hospital separations data, of patients admitted to public and private hospitals in SA with a principal diagnosis of femoral neck fracture between July 2002 and June 2008 was done. Main outcome measures include number and rates of hospital admissions, 30-day in-hospital and 1-year mortality following a first hip fracture and subsequent event rates, by age and sex.

RESULTS

Unadjusted hip fracture admissions increased in SA from 2002 to 2008 by 20 %, age-standardised (adjusted) admission rates increased overall (+5 %, p = 0.215) and significantly amongst males (+26 %, p = 0.001), while there was no change among women (−1 %, p = 0.763). Within 1 year of a hip fracture, 7 % had broken another bone (5 % had refractured a hip). At 1 year post-fracture, unadjusted mortality was consistently and considerably higher amongst men compared to women (33 versus 19 %, p < 0.001). Age-standardised mortality from admission to 1 year fell but not statistically significantly by 15 % in women (p = 0.131) and 8 % in men (p = 0.510). Women had a reduction in age-standardised in-hospital mortality over time (p = 0.048); there was a non-significant decline in men (p = 0.080).

CONCLUSIONS

Hip fracture admissions in SA increased over the study period and this appears to be driven by an increase in admissions amongst men. Men fared worst in terms of higher absolute mortality. There is some evidence to suggest refracture rates and male health outcomes require further attention.

Secular trends in Swedish hip fractures 1987-2002: birth cohort and period effects

BACKGROUND

Recently, a leveling off in hip-fracture incidence has been reported in several settings, but the annual number is nonetheless predicted to increase due to the growing elderly population.

METHODS

Using Swedish national data for 1987-2002 for all inpatients 50 years or older, we examined the annual number and incidence of hip fractures and explored age, period, and cohort effects. Age adjustment was done by direct standardization, time-trend analysis by linear regression, changes in linear trends by joinpoint regression, and age-period-cohort effects by log-likelihood estimates in Poisson regression models.

RESULTS

Before 1996, the age-standardized hip fracture incidence was stable (0.1% per year [95% confidence interval = -0.2% to 0.5%]), and the annual number of hip fractures increased (2.1% per year [1.8% to 2.4%]). After 1996, both the age-standardized hip fracture incidence (-2.2% per year [-2.8% to -1.6%]) and the number of hip fractures (-0.9% per year [-1.5% to -0.4%]) decreased. The period + cohort effects were more marked among women than men, with a major reduction in hip fracture incidence in subsequent birth cohorts (estimated incidence rate ratio = 2.2 comparing women born 1889-1896 with 1945-1952) or periods (estimated incidence rate ratio = 1.1 comparing women living 1987-1990 with 1999-2002).

CONCLUSION

The age-standardized hip fracture incidence has decreased since 1996, more than counteracting the effects of the aging population and resulting in a decline in the annual number of hip fractures through 2002. The magnitude of the combined period and cohort effects in women seems to be of biologic importance. If this persists into older age, the annual number of hip fractures will be lower than has been projected.

Secular trends of hip fractures in Québec, Canada

This study examined the secular trends of hip fracture incidence among individuals 50 years and older in Québec between 1993 and 2004. Age-standardized rates decreased at both the provincial and regional levels. The largest relative decrease was observed among younger females, and rates declined more slowly in the elderly.

INTRODUCTION

The population of the province of Québec is among the oldest in North America. Before the trend rupture reported in the late 1990s in several countries, hip fracture (HF) incidence rates did not show a secular trend (between 1981 and 1992). This study examined the secular trends of HF incidence at the provincial level and in two of the most important urban areas of the province, Montréal and Québec City, between 1993 and 2004.

METHODS

All hospitalisations of individuals 50 years and older living in the province of Québec between 1993 and 2004 with a main diagnosis of HF were included. Standardized rates of HF incidence were calculated for females and males, 50-74 years and 75 years and older.

RESULTS

The Québec City area showed a strong decreasing trend in HF rates for younger females, but the other groups did not show an obvious trend. Although our models did not support the existence of significant differences in trends between both areas, the rates of HF of younger males and, to a lesser extent, of older women in the Montréal area were significantly higher than in the Québec City area.

CONCLUSIONS

Differences observed in hip fracture rates as well as in secular trends between age groups and gender emphasise the need for decision makers to rely on results based on age-specific and sex-specific analyses.

Modeling seasonal variation of hip fracture in Montreal, Canada

The investigation of the association of the climate variables with hip fracture incidences is important in social health issues. This study examined and modeled the seasonal variation of monthly population based hip fracture rate (HFr) time series. The seasonal ARIMA time series modeling approach is used to model monthly HFr incidences time series of female and male patients of the ages 40-74 and 75+ of Montreal, Québec province, Canada, in the period of 1993-2004. The correlation coefficients between meteorological variables such as temperature, snow depth, rainfall depth and day length and HFr are significant. The nonparametric Mann-Kendall test for trend assessment and the nonparametric Levene's test and Wilcoxon's test for checking the difference of HFr before and after change point are also used. The seasonality in HFr indicated sharp difference between winter and summer time. The trend assessment showed decreasing trends in HFr of female and male groups. The nonparametric test also indicated a significant change of the mean HFr. A seasonal ARIMA model was applied for HFr time series without trend and a time trend ARIMA model (TT-ARIMA) was developed and fitted to HFr time series with a significant trend. The multi criteria evaluation showed the adequacy of SARIMA and TT-ARIMA models for modeling seasonal hip fracture time series with and without significant trend. In the time series analysis of HFr of the Montreal region, the effects of the seasonal variation of climate variables on hip fracture are clear. The Seasonal ARIMA model is useful for modeling HFr time series without trend. However, for time series with significant trend, the TT-ARIMA model should be applied for modeling HFr time series.

Epidemiology and structural basis of racial differences in fragility fractures in Chinese and Caucasians

Chinese have similar vertebral fracture prevalence but lower incidence of hip and distal forearm fractures than in Caucasians. The underlying structural and biomechanical basis of racial differences in bone fragility is still largely undefined but Chinese assemble their smaller appendicular skeleton with thicker cortices and trabeculae compared with Caucasians. Vertebral fracture prevalence is similar by race, but the incidence of hip and distal forearm fractures is lower in Chinese than in Caucasians. This racial dimorphism cannot be explained by differences in areal bone mineral density (aBMD) as aBMD is lower in Chinese mainly due to their smaller size. The underlying structural and biomechanical basis of racial differences in bone fragility is still largely undefined but Chinese assemble their smaller appendicular skeleton with more mineralised bone matrix within it; the cortices are thicker and perhaps less porous while trabeculae are fewer but thicker and more connected. This configuration produces a bone with a lower surface/volume ratio, which in turn reduces the surface available for remodelling to occur upon so that the lower surface/volume ratio may make the bone less exposed to remodelling and the thicker cortices and trabeculae less vulnerable to remodelling when it does occur during advancing age. However, prospective studies are needed to define racial differences at the age of onset, rate of bone loss from the intracortical, endocortical and trabecular components of the endosteal envelope and bone formation upon the periosteal envelope; notions of bone 'loss' are derived mainly from cross-sectional studies. Studies of the site- and surface-specific changes in bone modelling and remodelling are needed to better define racial differences in bone fragility in old age.

Dynamic hip screws versus proximal femoral nails for intertrochanteric fractures

BACKGROUND

It is essential to determine the optimal treatment of intertrochanteric fractures due to their high incidence and related public health burden. Debate remains as to whether dynamic hip screws (DHS) or proximal femoral nails (PFNs) are best practice, and this pilot study seeks to collect information relevant to this query.

METHODS

We undertook a retrospective audit of 144 patients who received a dynamic hip screw or a proximal femoral nail in order to compare age, sex, duration of surgery, duration of hospitalization, time of first mobilization, and rate anaemia, sepsis, avascular necrosis, prosthesis failure, revision, deep vein thrombosis, pulmonary embolus, non-ST elevation myocardial infarction, common peroneal nerve palsy and death between implantation of a DHS and a PFN.

RESULTS

No differences were found between groups in age, duration of surgery, duration of hospitalization, time of first mobilization and rate of complications. Statistically significant differences were found in sex distributions, operation time and length of stay. However, analysis of median operation time and length of stay when adjusted for sex revealed no significant differences.

CONCLUSION

This study demonstrated no statistically significant differences in peri- and post-operative measures between patients undergoing intertrochanteric fracture fixation via PFN or DHS. This is the only data from Australian hospitals, and further national research is needed.

Changes in first hip fracture rates in British Columbia Canada, 1990-2004

We determined age-standardized first hip fracture rates in British Columbia between 1990 and 2004. We found sex and fracture type rates in keeping with previous reports and that fracture rates have decreased approximately 18% overall in both men and women.

INTRODUCTION

To determine whether there have been changes in the age-, sex-, and subtype-specific first hip fracture rates in Canadian province of British Columbia (BC) between 1990 and 2004.

METHODS

Records of all persons aged 60 years and older hospitalized with hip fractures in BC between 1985 and 2004 were obtained from the Canadian Institute for Health Information Discharge Abstract Database. Only the first hip fracture records were included, and fractures likely due to causes other than trauma were excluded. Age- and sex-specific rates were calculated using population denominators from Statistics Canada and direct standardization was used. Age-standardized rates allowed for comparison across years with adjustment for age distribution.

RESULTS

There were 41,990 records of first hip fracture included, and 73% were in women. Trends in age-specific rates by fracture type were similar to previous reports. Between 1990 and 2004, there has been an age-adjusted 18% decrease in first hip fracture rates in women, and 19% decrease in first hip fracture rates in men. The decrease was statistically significant in femoral neck fractures in women, but not in men.

CONCLUSIONS

There has been a decrease in age-adjusted hip fracture rates in BC between 1990 and 2004, which is in contrast to previous projections for hip fracture rates in Canada.

Conflicting trends in fall-related injury hospitalisations among older people: variations by injury type

Despite advances in prevention, fall-related hospitalisation rates among older people are still increasing. Rates between 1998/1999 and 2008/2009 for non-facture-related injuries increased by 6.1% while fracture injuries declined by -0.4%. Varying trends in rates of different injury types makes it difficult to provide a definitive explanation for these changes.

INTRODUCTION

Despite advances in fall prevention research and practice, the rate of fall-related hospitalisations continues to increase. However, hip fracture rates appear to be declining. An examination of trends in types of injuries that contribute to the overall fall injury rate is required to establish which injuries are driving the falls admission rate. The aim of this paper is to examine trends in fall-related injury hospital admissions by injury type in New South Wales (NSW), Australia.

METHODS

A retrospective review of fall-related injury hospitalisations in NSW among individuals aged 65+ years, by injury type, was conducted from 1 July 1998 to 30 June 2009. Direct age-standardised admission rates were calculated. Negative binomial regression was used to examine the statistical significance of changes in trend over time of different hospitalised fall-related injuries.

RESULTS

The fall-related hospitalisation rate increased by 1.7% each year (p < 0.0001; 95% confidence interval (CI), 1.3-2.1%). However, the rate of fracture declined by -0.4% (p < 0.03; 95% CI, -0.8-0.0%); whereas, the non-fracture rate increased by 6.1% (p < 0.0001; 95% CI, 5.5-6.7%) annually. Rates for severe head injuries, rib and pelvic fracture increased while those for hip and forearm fracture declined.

CONCLUSIONS

It appears that while fall prevention efforts in NSW are not yet affecting the overall rate of injury hospitalisation, there has been a significant decline in the rates of some fractures. Opposing trends in the rates of other fracture admissions and a significant increase in the rate of non-fracture injuries associated with falls makes a definitive explanation for these changes difficult.

Hip fractures in a city in Northern Norway over 15 years: time trends, seasonal variation and mortality : the Harstad Injury Prevention Study

In this open population-based study from Northern Norway, there was no increase in hip fracture incidence in women and men from 1994 to 2008. Age-adjusted hip fracture rates was lower compared to reported rates from the Norwegian capital Oslo, indicating regional differences within the country.

INTRODUCTION

The aim of the present population-based study was to describe age- and sex-specific incidence of hip fractures in a Northern Norwegian city, compare rates with the Norwegian capital Oslo, describe time trends in hip fracture incidence, place of injury, seasonal variation and compare mortality after hip fracture between women and men.

METHODS

Data on hip fractures from 1994 to 2008 in women and men aged 50 years and above were obtained from the Harstad Injury Registry.

RESULTS

There were altogether 603 hip fractures in Harstad between 1994 and 2008. The annual incidenc rose exponentially from 5.8 to 349.2 per 10,000 in men, and from 8.7 to 582.2 per 10,000 in women from the age group 50-54 to 90+ years. The age-adjusted incidence rates were 101.0 and 37.4 in women and men, respectively, compared to 118.0 in women (p = 0.005) and 44.0 in men (p = 0.09) in Oslo. The age-adjusted incidence rates did not increase between 1994-1996 and 2006-2008. The majority of hip fractures occurred indoors and seasonal variation was significant in fractures occurring outdoors only. After adjusting for age at hip fracture, mortality after fracture was higher in men than in women 3, 6 and 12 months (p ≤ 0.002) after fracture.

CONCLUSIONS

There are regional differences in hip fracture incidence that cannot be explained by a north-south gradient in Norway. Preventive strategies must be targeted to indoor areas throughout the year and to outdoor areas in winter.