FRAX and fracture prediction without bone mineral density

Integration of Spinal Musculoskeletal System Parameters for Predicting OVCF in the Elderly: A Comprehensive Predictive Model

STUDY DESIGN

Systematic literature review.

OBJECTIVES

To develop a predictive model for osteoporotic vertebral compression fractures (OVCF) in the elderly, utilizing current tools that are sensitive to bone and paraspinal muscle changes.

METHODS

A retrospective analysis of data from 260 patients from October 2020 to December 2022, to form the Model population. This group was split into Training and Testing sets. The Training set aided in creating a nomogram through binary logistic regression. From January 2023 to January 2024, we prospectively collected data from 106 patients to constitute the Validation population. The model's performance was evaluated using concordance index (C-index), calibration curves, and decision curve analysis (DCA) for both internal and external validation.

RESULTS

The study included 366 patients. The Training and Testing sets were used for nomogram construction and internal validation, while the prospectively collected data was for external validation. Binary logistic regression identified nine independent OVCF risk factors: age, bone mineral density (BMD), quantitative computed tomography (QCT), vertebral bone quality (VBQ), relative functional cross-sectional area of psoas muscles (rFCSAPS), gross and functional muscle fat infiltration of multifidus and psoas muscles (GMFIES+MF and FMFIES+MF), FMFIPS, and mean muscle ratio. The nomogram showed an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.91 for the C-index, with internal and external validation AUCs of 0.90 and 0.92. Calibration curves and DCA indicated a good model fit.

CONCLUSIONS

This study identified nine factors as independent predictors of OVCF in the elderly. A nomogram including these factors was developed, proving effective for OVCF prediction.

Relationship between donepezil and fracture risk in patients with dementia with Lewy bodies

AIM

Patients with dementia with Lewy bodies (DLB) are at a high risk for falls and fractures. Although cholinesterase inhibitors reportedly are effective in suppressing the progression of cognitive symptoms in DLB patients, their effects on fracture risk remain unclarified. This study aimed to evaluate the association between donepezil use and hip fracture risk in older patients with DLB.

METHODS

Using the Japanese insurance claim database, we collected the data of patients aged ≥65 years with DLB from April 2012 to March 2019. After propensity score matching, we compared the fracture rate over 3 years between DLB patients receiving donepezil and those not receiving antidementia drugs.

RESULTS

Altogether, 24 022 239 individuals aged ≥65 years were newly registered from April 2012 to March 2016 and had verifiable information from 6 months before to 3 years after the registration. We identified 6634 pure-DLB patients and analyzed the data of 1182 propensity score-matched pairs. The characteristics, including age, sex, fracture history, osteoporosis, and bone mineral density test rate, of the two groups were well balanced by propensity score matching. The incidence rate of hip fracture was significantly lower in DLB patients receiving donepezil than in those not receiving antidementia drugs (0.60 vs. 1.44/100 person-years, P < 0.001), whereas that of vertebral fractures was the same.

CONCLUSIONS

Donepezil administration in Japanese people aged ≥65 years with DLB was significantly associated with a decreased risk of hip fracture. Donepezil may provide new benefits to DLB patients. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2024; 24: 782-788.

Performance of the Brazilian Fracture Assessment Risk Tool (FRAX) model and the age-dependent intervention thresholds according to National Osteoporosis Guideline Group (NOGG) guidelines on fracture prediction in community-dwelling older adults: the São Paulo Ageing and Health (SPAH) Study

The SPAH study is a population-based prospective cohort of Brazilian community-dwelling elderlies with higher fracture risk than observed in the studies used to construct the Brazilian FRAX model. In this study, the FRAX tool was a good fracture predictor within this high-risk elderly cohort, especially when calculated without bone density.

PURPOSE

To determine the performances of FRAX and age-dependent intervention thresholds according to National Osteoporosis Guideline Group (NOGG) guidelines with and without bone mineral density (BMD) regarding fracture prediction in community-dwelling elderly Brazilians.

METHODS

Seven hundred and five older adults (447 women; 258 men) were followed for 4.3 ± 0.8 years. FRAX risk for hip and major osteoporotic fractures with and without BMD was calculated at baseline. The bivariate analysis investigated the associations between the absolute probability of fracture (FRAX), as well as the age-dependent intervention thresholds (NOGG), and the incidence of vertebral fracture (VF), non-vertebral fracture (NVF), and major osteoporotic fractures (MOF), segregated by sex. Age-adjusted Poisson's multiple regression and ROC curves were constructed to determine FRAX and NOGG's accuracies as fracture predictors.

RESULTS

Fractures occurred in 22% of women and 15% of men. FRAX with and without BMD was higher in women with all types of fractures (p < 0.001). Only NOGG risk classification without BMD was associated with NVF (p = 0.047) and MOF (p = 0.024). FRAX was associated with NVF in the multiple regression, regardless of BMD. ROC curves of FRAX with and without BMD had AUCs of 0.74, 0.64, and 0.61 for NVF, VF, and MOF, respectively. The most accurate risk cutoffs for FRAX were 8% for MOF and 3% for hip fractures. No statistically significant associations were found in men.

CONCLUSION

FRAX predicted NVF more accurately than VF or MOF in elderlies, regardless of BMD. These results reiterate that FRAX may be used without BMD, even considering that Brazilian elderlies have known higher fracture risk.

Plasma microRNA signature associated with skeletal muscle wasting in post-menopausal osteoporotic women

BACKGROUND

Skeletal muscle mass wasting almost invariably accompanies bone loss in elderly, and the coexistence of these two conditions depends on the tight endocrine crosstalk existing between the two organs, other than the biomechanical coupling. Since the current diagnostics limitation in this field, and given the progressive population aging, more effective tools are needed. The aim of this study was to identify circulating microRNAs (miRNAs) as potential biomarkers for muscle mass wasting in post-menopausal osteoporotic women.

METHODS

One hundred seventy-nine miRNAs were assayed by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction in plasma samples from 28 otherwise healthy post-menopausal osteoporotic women (73.4 ± 6.6 years old). The cohort was divided in tertiles based on appendicular skeletal muscle mass index (ASMMI) to better highlight the differences on skeletal muscle mass (first tertile: n = 9, ASMMI = 4.88 ± 0.40 kg·m-2; second tertile: n = 10, ASMMI = 5.73 ± 0.23 kg·m-2; third tertile: n = 9, ASMMI = 6.40 ± 0.22 kg·m-2). Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves were calculated to estimate the diagnostic potential of miRNAs. miRNAs displaying a statistically significant fold change ≥ ±1.5 and area under the curve (AUC) > 0.800 (P < 0.05) between the first and third tertiles were considered. A linear regression model was applied to estimate the association between miRNA expression and ASMMI in the whole population, adjusting for body mass index, age, total fat (measured by total-body dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry [DXA]) and bone mineral density (measured by femur DXA). Circulating levels of adipo-myokines were evaluated by bead-based immunofluorescent assays and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays.

RESULTS

Five miRNAs (hsa-miR-221-3p, hsa-miR-374b-5p, hsa-miR-146a-5p, hsa-miR-126-5p and hsa-miR-425-5p) resulted down-regulated and two miRNAs (hsa-miR-145-5p and hsa-miR-25-3p) were up-regulated in the first tertile (relative-low ASMMI) compared with the third tertile (relative-high ASMMI) (fold change ≥ ±1.5; P-value < 0.05). All the corresponding ROC curves had AUC > 0.8 (P < 0.05). Two signatures hsa-miR-126-5p, hsa-miR-146a-5p and hsa-miR-425-5p; and hsa-miR-126-5p, hsa-miR-146a-5p, hsa-miR-145-5p and hsa-miR-25-3p showed the highest AUC, 0.914 (sensitivity = 77.78%; specificity = 100.00%) and 0.901 (sensitivity = 88.89%; specificity = 100.00%), respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

In this study, we identified, for the first time, two miRNA signatures, hsa-miR-126-5p, hsa-miR-146a-5p and hsa-miR-425-5p; and hsa-miR-126-5p, hsa-miR-146a-5p, hsa-miR-145-5p and hsa-miR-25-3p, specifically associated with muscle mass wasting in post-menopausal osteoporotic women.

Effects of kinect-based virtual reality training on bone mineral density and fracture risk in postmenopausal women with osteopenia: a randomized controlled trial

Osteopenia is a condition characterized by low bone mineral density (BMD) that increases fracture risk, particularly among postmenopausal women (PMW). This study aimed to determine the effects of Kinect-based VRT on BMD and fracture risk in PMW with osteopenia. The study was a prospective, two-arm, parallel-design, randomized controlled trial. The study enrolled 52 participants, 26 randomly assigned to each group. In the experimental group, Kinect-based VRT was provided thrice weekly for 24 weeks for 45 min/session. Both groups were instructed to engage in a daily 30-min walk outdoors. The fracture risk assessment tool (FRAX) was used to calculate fracture risk, and dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry was used to measure lumbar spine and femur neck BMD. Both variables were assessed at baseline and 24 weeks afterwards. After 24 weeks of Kinect-based VRT, the experimental group showed significant BMD increases in the right and left femoral necks and lumbar spine (p value < 0.001). In the control group, the BMD at the right and left femoral necks showed fewer significant changes (p value < 0.022 and 0.004, respectively). In the control group, lumbar spine BMD did not change (p = 0.57). The experimental group showed significantly lower FRAX scores for hip fracture prediction (HFP) and hip prediction of major osteoporotic (HPMO) at both femoral necks (p value < 0.001) than the control group (p = 0.05 and p = 0.01, respectively), but no significant change at the left femoral neck for HFP (p = 0.66) or HPMO (p = 0.26). These findings indicate that a Kinect-based VRT intervention resulted in significantly increased BMD and a reduced fracture risk, as predicted by HFP and HPMO measurements. These improvements were more pronounced in the experimental group than in the control group. Thus, Kinect-based VRT may be utilized as an effective intervention to improve BMD and reduce fracture risk in postmenopausal women with osteopenia.

Prevalence and risk factors of osteosarcopenia: a systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Osteosarcopenia is a syndrome with a concomitant presence of both sarcopenia and osteopenia/osteoporosis. It increases the risk of frailty, falls, fractures, hospitalization, and death. Not only does it burden the lives of older adults, but it also increases the economic burden on health systems around the world. This study aimed to review the prevalence and risk factors of osteosarcopenia to generate important references for clinical work in this area.

METHODS

Pubmed, Embase, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, CNKI, Wanfang, CBM, and VIP databases were searched from inception until April 24th, 2022. The quality of studies included in the review was evaluated using the NOS and AHRQ Scale. Pooled effects of the prevalence and associated factors were calculated using random or fixed effects models. Egger's test, Begg's test, and funnel plots were used to test the publication bias. Sensitivity analysis and subgroup analysis were conducted to identify the sources of heterogeneity. Statistical analysis was performed using Stata 14.0 and Review Manager 5.4.

RESULTS

A total of 31 studies involving 15,062 patients were included in this meta-analysis. The prevalence of osteosarcopenia ranged from 1.5 to 65.7%, with an overall prevalence of 21% (95% CI: 0.16-0.26). The risk factors for osteosarcopenia were female (OR 5.10, 95% CI: 2.37-10.98), older age (OR 1.12, 95% CI: 1.03-1.21), and fracture (OR 2.92, 95% CI: 1.62-5.25).

CONCLUSION

The prevalence of osteosarcopenia was high. Females, advanced age, and history of fracture were independently associated with osteosarcopenia. It is necessary to adopt integrated multidisciplinary management.

A Mini Review on Osteoporosis: From Biology to Pharmacological Management of Bone Loss

Osteoporosis refers to excessive bone loss as reflected by the deterioration of bone mass and microarchitecture, which compromises bone strength. It is a complex multifactorial endocrine disease. Its pathogenesis relies on the presence of several endogenous and exogenous risk factors, which skew the physiological bone remodelling to a more catabolic process that results in net bone loss. This review aims to provide an overview of osteoporosis from its biology, epidemiology and clinical aspects (detection and pharmacological management). The review will serve as an updated reference for readers to understand the basics of osteoporosis and take action to prevent and manage this disease.

Age-dependent assessment thresholds to optimize patient care in a resource-limited setting: an analysis based on the Sri Lankan FRAX model

Age-dependent upper and lower assessment thresholds help categorizing women aged 40 years or more according to their fracture risk, independent of BMD information.

INTRODUCTION

Age-dependent assessment thresholds of the FRAX algorithm help stratifying men and women aged 40 years or more according to their fracture risk. This allows clinicians to decide on those who require interventions without BMD assessment and those who require BMD input for further assessment.

METHODS

Intervention thresholds were defined by 10-year probabilities of a major osteoporotic fracture (MOF) and hip fracture (HF) considering a woman with a BMI of 25.0 kg/m² having a prior fragility fracture but no other clinical risk factors. The lower assessment thresholds (LAT) were set at 0.8 times the 10-year probabilities of a MOF and HF in a woman with a BMI of 25.0 kg/m², without previous fracture or other clinical risk factors. The upper assessment thresholds (UAT) were set at 1.2 times the intervention thresholds of MOF and HF. Fracture probabilities were estimated for the age range of 40-80 years, without BMD input. These values were applied to a group of women who underwent DXA for clinical reasons in a single center.

RESULTS

The LATs of MOF and HF varied from 0.7 to 8.8% and 0.1 to 3.7%, from 40 to 80 years, respectively. The corresponding values for UATs were 2.5 to 21.6% and 0.3 to 8.4%. ITs of MOF and HF varied from 2.1 to 18% and 0.2 to 7%, respectively. When applied to a group of 315 postmenopausal women who underwent DXA for clinical indications, 22.9% of women were above the UATs (high-risk category) while 8.6% were below the LATs (low-risk category). The proportion of women in the intermediate category who require BMD for further assessment was 68.6% (95% CI 59.7 to 77.5%).

CONCLUSIONS

In nearly one-third of women aged 40 years or more, the decision to treat or not to treat can be achieved without BMD estimation. The remaining two-thirds will require a BMD assessment for further evaluation.

Circulating serum microRNAs including senescent miR-31-5p are associated with incident fragility fractures in older postmenopausal women with type 2 diabetes mellitus

Fragility fractures are an important hallmark of aging and an increasingly recognized complication of Type 2 diabetes (T2D). T2D individuals have been found to exhibit an increased fracture risk despite elevated bone mineral density (BMD) by dual x-ray absorptiometry (DXA). However, BMD and FRAX-scores tend to underestimate fracture risk in T2D. New, reliable biomarkers are therefore needed. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are secreted into the circulation from cells of various tissues proportional to local disease severity. Serum miRNA-classifiers were recently found to discriminate T2D women with and without prevalent fragility fractures with high specificity and sensitivity (AUC > 0.90). However, the association of circulating miRNAs with incident fractures in T2D has not been examined yet. In 168 T2D postmenopausal women in the AGES-Reykjavik cohort, miRNAs were extracted from baseline serum and a panel of 10 circulating miRNAs known to be involved in diabetic bone disease and aging was quantified by qPCR and Ct-values extracted. Unadjusted and adjusted Cox proportional hazard models assessed the associations between serum miRNAs and incident fragility fracture. Additionally, Receiver operating curve (ROC) analyses were performed. Of the included 168 T2D postmenopausal women who were on average 77.2 ± 5.6 years old, 70 experienced at least one incident fragility fracture during the mean follow-up of 5.8 ± 2.7 years. We found that 3 serum miRNAs were significantly associated with incident diabetic fragility fracture: while low expression of miR-19b-1-5p was associated with significantly lower risk of incident fragility fracture (HR 0.84 (95% CI: 0.71-0.99, p = 0.0323)), low expression of miR-203a and miR-31-5p was each significantly associated with a higher risk of incident fragility fracture per unit increase in Ct-value (miR-203a: HR 1.29 (95% CI: 1.12-1.49), p = 0.0004, miR-31-5p HR 1.27 (95% CI: 1.06-1.52), p = 0.009). Hazard ratios of the latter two miRNAs remained significant after adjustments for age, body mass index (BMI), areal bone mineral density (aBMD), clinical FRAX or FRAXaBMD. Women with miR-203a and miR-31-5p serum levels in the lowest expression quartiles exhibited a 2.4-3.4-fold larger fracture risk than women with miR-31-5p and miR-203a serum expressions in the highest expression quartile (0.002 ≤ p ≤ 0.039). Women with both miR-203a and miR-31-5p serum levels below the median had a significantly increased fracture risk (Unadjusted HR 3.26 (95% CI: 1.57-6.78, p = 0.001) compared to those with both expression levels above the median, stable to adjustments. We next built a diabetic fragility signature consisting of the 3 miRNAs that showed the largest associations with incident fracture (miR-203a, miR-31-5p, miR-19b-1-5p). This 3-miRNA signature showed with an AUC of 0.722 comparable diagnostic accuracy in identifying incident fractures to any of the clinical parameters such as aBMD, Clinical FRAX or FRAXaBMD alone. When the 3 miRNAs were combined with aBMD, this combined 4-feature signature performed with an AUC of 0.756 (95% CI: 0.680, 0.823) significantly better than aBMD alone (AUC 0.666, 95% CI: 0.585, 0.741) (p = 0.009). Our data indicate that specific serum microRNAs including senescent miR-31-5p are associated with incident fragility fracture in older diabetic women and can significantly improve fracture risk prediction in diabetics when combined with aBMD measurements of the femoral neck.

Advances in bone turnover markers

Bone fragility fractures remain an important worldwide health and economic problem due to increased morbidity and mortality. The current methods for predicting fractures are largely based on the measurement of bone mineral density and the utilization of mathematical risk calculators based on clinical risk factors for bone fragility. Despite these approaches, many bone fractures remain undiagnosed. Therefore, current research is focused on the identification of new factors such as bone turnover markers (BTM) for risk calculation. BTM are a group of proteins and peptides released during bone remodeling that can be found in serum or urine. They derive from bone resorptive and formative processes mediated by osteoclasts and osteoblasts, respectively. Potential use of BTM in monitoring these phenomenon and therefore bone fracture risk is limited by physiologic and pathophysiologic factors that influence BTM. These limitations in predicting fractures explain why their inclusion in clinical guidelines remains limited despite the large number of studies examining BTM.

FRAX score with and without bone mineral density: a comparison and factors affecting the discordance in osteoporosis treatment in Thais

We investigate the rate of concordance between treatment recommendations of osteoporosis with 10-year probability of hip fracture calculated using FRAX scores with and without BMD. We found that predictions were concordant in 83.8% of patients. However, older age, lower BMD, and FRAX without BMD around the intervention threshold were associated with discordant results. In the discordant group, FRAX with BMD suggested treatment in more participants with lower age, higher BMI, and lower BMD when compared with FRAX without BMD.

INTRODUCTION

The Fracture Risk Assessment Tool (FRAX) is used to calculate the 10-year probability of fracture using important clinical factors, with bone mineral density (BMD) as an optional input variable. We aimed to determine the rate of concordance between treatment recommendations of osteoporosis with 10-year probability of hip fracture calculated using FRAX scores with and without BMD and to identify relevant clinical risk factors associated with discordance.

METHODS

This was a cross-sectional study conducted in patients between 40 and 90 years of age who were screened for osteoporosis by BMD measurement using dual energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) from 2010 to 2018 at a university hospital in Thailand. A FRAX questionnaire was administered to determine demographic data and osteoporotic risk factors. FRAX scores with and without BMD were calculated for each participant using the Thai reference, and patients were categorized into either the treatment or non-treatment group based on a cut-off of 3% 10-year probability of hip fracture. When FRAX scores with and without BMD results were consistent, they were considered concordant. Otherwise, they were deemed discordant. Clinical risk factors were compared between the concordant and discordant groups.

RESULTS

A total of 3545 participants were included in the study. The majority (83.8%) were in the concordant group. However, older age, lower BMD, and FRAX without BMD around the intervention threshold were significantly associated with discordant results. In the discordant group, FRAX with BMD suggested treatment in more participants with lower age, higher BMI, and lower BMD when compared with FRAX without BMD.

CONCLUSION

FRAX scores with and without BMD yielded concordant predictions regarding the 10-year probability of hip fracture suggesting pharmacological treatment. However, this concordance declined in elderly and osteoporotic participants and in those with FRAX without BMD around intervention threshold. BMD data may be required in these populations in order to facilitate accurate risk assessment.

Comparison of screening tools for optimizing fracture prevention in Canada

The best screening strategy to identify treatment qualification based upon indicators of high fracture risk (low-trauma fractures of the hip, spine, or multiple fracture episodes at other sites; high fracture probability with the Canadian fracture risk assessment [FRAX®] tool major osteoporotic fracture [MOF] computed with bone mineral density [BMD] > 20%; or vertebral fracture on vertebral fracture assessment [VFA]) was FRAX-MOF without BMD using a cutoff of ≥ 10%.

PURPOSE

To inform clinical practice guidelines in Canada, we compared multiple screening tools using the population-based Manitoba BMD Program registry.

METHODS

The study populations consisted of (a) 28,906 individuals > 50 years or older, and (b) 15,429 women age > 65 years undergoing baseline BMD assessment (2010-2018). We considered two treatment qualifications: Treatment Approach 1: prior high-risk fracture, high fracture probability (FRAX-MOF with BMD > 20%), or vertebral fracture on VFA; Treatment Approach 2: Approach 1 or an osteoporotic BMD T score. Candidate screening tools were FRAX-MOF without BMD, age alone, weight alone, SCORE, ORAI, SOFSURF, OSIRIS, ABONE, and OST. Healthcare records were assessed for the presence of incident fracture diagnoses.

RESULTS

Among all individuals, FRAX-MOF without BMD demonstrated the best ability to identify those satisfying Treatment Approach 1 (area under the curve [AUC 0.863]) and was significantly better than all other screening tools (P < 0.001). For identification of individuals satisfying Treatment Approach 2, FRAX-MOF without BMD showed moderate stratification (AUC 0.735), slightly lower than OSIRIS (AUC 0.752, P < 0.05), similar to SCORE (AUC 0.739, P > 0.05) and significantly better than all other screening tools (P < 0.05). For prediction of incident MOF, FRAX-MOF without BMD achieved the highest performance (AUC 0.652), and was significantly better than all other screening tools except OSIRIS. AUCs among women age > 65 years tended to be greater with a similar ranking, and no tool outperformed FRAX-MOF without BMD. Based upon a summary score, the highest ranked strategy was FRAX-MOF without BMD using a cutoff of 10%.

CONCLUSIONS

All screening tools show some ability to identify individuals qualifying for treatment and stratify risk for incident fracture. For treatment based upon indicators of high fracture risk, the best performing strategy was FRAX-MOF without BMD using a cutoff of ≥ 10%.

Targeted bone density testing for optimizing fracture prevention in Canada

The Canadian FRAX® tool used without bone mineral density (BMD) is highly sensitive for identifying individuals qualifying for pharmacotherapy based upon an intervention threshold of 20% for major osteoporotic fracture risk (MOF) computed with BMD.

INTRODUCTION

This analysis was performed to inform initial BMD testing as part of Osteoporosis Canada's Guidelines Update for women and men at average risk, assuming a pharmacotherapy intervention threshold of 20% for FRAX® MOF computed with BMD.

METHODS

Women and men age 50 + without previous low-trauma fracture or high-risk medication use were identified in a BMD registry for the province of Manitoba, Canada. Fracture probability assessments with the Canadian FRAX® tool were computed without and with BMD (denoted MOF-clinical and MOF-BMD, respectively).

RESULTS

The study population consisted of 50,700 women (mean age 65.5 ± 9.4 years) and 4152 men (69.2 ± 10.0 years). FRAX MOF-clinical score was > 10% in 33.8% of women and 13.3% of men (P < 0.001). The median (interquartile range [IQR]) age for MOF-clinical to reach 10% in women was 70 (69-72) and 65 years (62-67) years in the absence and presence of additional FRAX clinical risk factors, respectively. In men, comparable ages were 83 years [82-86] and 76 [70-78] years. Using MOF-BMD of 20% as the intervention threshold, 4.3% of women and 0.7% of men qualified for treatment. MOF-clinical > 10% had high sensitivity to identify those qualifying for treatment (99.3% in women and 99.1% in men). An age-based rule ("BMD testing is indicated at age 70 if no additional FRAX clinical risk factors are present, or at age 65 if one or more clinical risk factors exists") gave similarly high sensitivity (women 99.9% and men > 99.9%).

CONCLUSIONS

FRAX without BMD offers an effective strategy to identify individuals meeting the current Canadian treatment threshold based upon FRAX® with BMD (≥ 20%). Moreover, this can be operationalized using simple age cutoffs of 70 years in the absence of additional clinical risk factors and 65 years in the presence of additional clinical risk factors.

Osteoporosis treatment considerations based upon fracture history, fracture risk assessment, vertebral fracture assessment, and bone density in Canada

Among 39,475 women, age 65 years and older, use of fracture history, major osteoporotic fracture (MOF) probability from FRAX®, vertebral fracture assessment (VFA), and bone mineral density (BMD) T-score stratified women into different levels of risk. The majority of women identified as being at high risk from fracture history, FRAX MOF-BMD > 20%, or vertebral fracture on VFA had a BMD T-score in the osteoporotic range.

PURPOSE

To inform criteria for pharmacologic treatment in women age 65 years and older, we examined subgroups defined from fracture history, MOF calculated with BMD (MOF-BMD), VFA, and BMD T-score using the population-based Manitoba BMD Program registry.

METHODS

The study population consisted of women age > 65 years was divided into mutually exclusive subgroups based upon fracture history, MOF-BMD ≥ 20%, vertebral fracture on VFA, and osteoporotic BMD T-score. Healthcare records were assessed for the presence of fracture diagnosis codes occurring after DXA assessment. For each subgroup, we estimated the proportion of individuals with BMD T-score in the osteoporotic range, predicted versus observed 10-year MOF probability, hazard ratio (HR) for MOF, and number needed to treat (NNT) for 3 years to prevent a fracture event.

RESULTS

The study population consisted of 39,475 women (median age 72 years). The majority of women (76.8%) selected as being at high risk based on fracture history, MOF-BMD > 20%, or vertebral fracture on VFA had a BMD T-score in the osteoporotic range. During a median follow-up of 8 years, 5169 (13.1%) sustained one or more incident MOF. Fracture rates and HRs generally paralleled the FRAX prediction, except in women with a positive VFA where predicted risk based upon clinical risk factors prior to VFA underestimated the observed risk. NNT differed by the risk subgroup, and showed a gradient of decreasing NNT (consistent with greater benefit) in individuals with the highest fracture risk.

CONCLUSIONS

Fracture history, fracture probability from FRAX, targeted vertebral fracture assessment (VFA), and BMD T-score can stratify older women into different levels of risk and treatment benefit. These results are expected to inform clinical practice guidelines in Canada.

A clinical guide to the pathophysiology, diagnosis and treatment of osteosarcopenia

Advances in medicine have paved the way for older persons to live longer, but with more years spent living with disability and dependency. Many older persons are living with comorbidities such as osteoporosis (loss of bone mass) and sarcopenia (loss of muscle mass and function), two diseases that, when concurrent, form osteosarcopenia, a newly identified musculoskeletal syndrome. Osteosarcopenia impedes mobility and diminishes independence and thus quality of life. Evidence suggests the pathology of this syndrome comprises genetic polymorphisms, alterations in mechanotransduction, and localized or systemic crosstalk between growth factors and other proteins (myokines, osteokines, adipokines). As a direct result of an aging society, health outcomes such as falls and fractures will rise as the prevalence of osteosarcopenia increases. Two major risk factors for osteosarcopenia (other than age itself) are physical inactivity and poor nutrition. Addressing these modifiable risk factors can prevent, or at least delay, the onset of osteosarcopenia. Pharmaceutical treatments for osteosarcopenia are currently unavailable, although research trials are underway. This review provides an update from basic and clinical sciences on the biology, epidemiology (prevalence, risk factors and diagnosis) and treatments for osteosarcopenia, and recommends future research priorities to improve health outcomes for those living with or at risk of osteosarcopenia.

FRAX® with or without BMD and TBS predicts fragility fractures in community-dwelling rural southern Indian postmenopausal women

This study from southern India showed that FRAX® with or without BMD or TBS predicted fragility vertebral fractures at a cut-off of ≥ 9% for major osteoporotic fracture and ≥ 2.5% for hip fracture with sensitivities of 77-88% and specificities of 55-72%.

PURPOSE

There is limited information available with regard to utility of Fracture Risk Assessment Tool (FRAX® tool) in predicting fragility fractures in Indian postmenopausal women. We studied the performance of 3 categories: FRAX® (without BMD), FRAX® (with BMD), and FRAX® (with BMD and TBS) in predicting fragility vertebral fractures in rural postmenopausal women.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

It was a cross-sectional study conducted at a south Indian tertiary care center. Rural postmenopausal women (n = 301) were recruited by simple random sampling. The risk for major osteoporotic fracture (MOF) and hip fracture (HF) was calculated individually for the 3 categories. The BMD (at lumbar spine and femoral neck) and vertebral fractures were assessed by a DXA (dual energy X-ray absorptiometry) scanner and TBS by TBS iNsight software. ROC curves were constructed, and area under curve (AUC), sensitivity and specificity of FRAX® scores, which would best predict prevalent vertebral fractures (moderate to severe), was computed.

RESULTS

The mean (SD) age was 65.6(5.1) years. The prevalence of osteoporosis at spine was 45%, and femoral neck was 32.6%. Moderate to severe vertebral fractures was seen in 29.2% of subjects. The performance of all 3 categories for FRAX® (MOF) and FRAX® (HF) were good (AUC was 0.798, 0.806, and 0.800, respectively, for MOF) at a cut-off score of ≥ 9, and at a cut-off of ≥ 2.5 for HF, it was 0.818, 0.775, and 0.770, respectively. At these cut-offs, sensitivities were 77-89%, and specificities were 55-72% for predicting prevalent vertebral fractures.

CONCLUSION

All three categories of FRAX® showed good performance in predicting fractures in Indian postmenopausal women. Thus, it may be utilized for decision regarding treatment and referral for osteoporosis.

Analysis and Review of Automated Risk Calculators Used to Predict Postoperative Complications After Orthopedic Surgery

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

To discuss the automated risk calculators that have been developed and evaluated in orthopedic surgery.

RECENT FINDINGS

Identifying predictors of adverse outcomes following orthopedic surgery is vital in the decision-making process for surgeons and patients. Recently, automated risk calculators have been developed to quantify patient-specific preoperative risk associated with certain orthopedic procedures. Automated risk calculators may provide the orthopedic surgeon with a valuable tool for clinical decision-making, informed consent, and the shared decision-making process with the patient. Understanding how an automated risk calculator was developed is arguably as important as the performance of the calculator. Additionally, conveying and interpreting the results of these risk calculators with the patient and its influence on surgical decision-making are paramount. The most abundant research on automated risk calculators has been conducted in the spine, total hip and knee arthroplasty, and trauma literature. Currently, many risk calculators show promise, but much research is still needed to improve them. We recommend they be used only as adjuncts to clinical decision-making. Understanding how a calculator was developed, and accurate communication of results to the patient, is paramount.

Secondary Fracture Prevention: Consensus Clinical Recommendations from a Multistakeholder Coalition

Osteoporosis-related fractures are undertreated, due in part to misinformation about recommended approaches to patient care and discrepancies among treatment guidelines. To help bridge this gap and improve patient outcomes, the American Society for Bone and Mineral Research assembled a multistakeholder coalition to develop clinical recommendations for the optimal prevention of secondary fractureamong people aged 65 years and older with a hip or vertebral fracture. The coalition developed 13 recommendations (7 primary and 6 secondary) strongly supported by the empirical literature. The coalition recommends increased communication with patients regarding fracture risk, mortality and morbidity outcomes, and fracture risk reduction. Risk assessment (including fall history) should occur at regular intervals with referral to physical and/or occupational therapy as appropriate. Oral, intravenous, andsubcutaneous pharmacotherapies are efficaciousandcanreduce risk of future fracture.Patientsneededucation,however, about thebenefitsandrisks of both treatment and not receiving treatment. Oral bisphosphonates alendronate and risedronate are first-line options and are generally well tolerated; otherwise, intravenous zoledronic acid and subcutaneous denosumab can be considered. Anabolic agents are expensive butmay be beneficial for selected patients at high risk.Optimal duration of pharmacotherapy is unknown but because the risk for second fractures is highest in the earlypost-fractureperiod,prompt treatment is recommended.Adequate dietary or supplemental vitaminDand calciumintake shouldbe assured. Individuals beingtreatedfor osteoporosis shouldbe reevaluated for fracture risk routinely, includingvia patienteducationabout osteoporosisandfracturesandmonitoringfor adverse treatment effects.Patients shouldbestronglyencouraged to avoid tobacco, consume alcohol inmoderation atmost, and engage in regular exercise and fall prevention strategies. Finally, referral to endocrinologists or other osteoporosis specialists may be warranted for individuals who experience repeated fracture or bone loss and those with complicating comorbidities (eg, hyperparathyroidism, chronic kidney disease).

Osteosarcopenia: the Path Beyond Controversy

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Osteosarcopenia is commonly accepted as the presence of low muscle mass and function (sarcopenia) and low bone mineral density (osteopenia and osteoporosis). Osteosarcopenia remains a topic of controversy as researchers worldwide seek to elucidate whether osteosarcopenia is associated with greater risk of negative outcomes than its component parts. This review examines the latest research and controversies, and charts a path forward.

RECENT FINDINGS

Osteosarcopenia may occur in 5-37% of community-dwelling adults over the age of 65. This wide range is driven by variation in population, setting, and definitions applied. These differences in study design have resulted in mixed findings in associations with adverse outcomes for older adults living with osteosarcopenia. Research into interventions to prevent or treat osteosarcopenia, such as exercise, protein supplementation, and pharmacotherapy, is in its infancy but examined herein. The absence of a consensus operational definition of sarcopenia, and inaccurate measures of muscle mass, has hampered global progress in the field. We present a case for the path forward by reflecting on our recent history.

Therapist's practice patterns for subsequent fall/osteoporotic fracture prevention for patients with a distal radius fracture

STUDY DESIGN

Cross-sectional survey.

INTRODUCTION

Multifactorial risk factor screening and treatment is needed for subsequent falls/osteoporotic fractures prevention (SFOFP), given the elevated risk among patients with distal radius fracture (DRF).

PURPOSE OF THE STUDY

The primary objective was to describe hand therapists' knowledge and clinical practice patterns for assessment, treatment, referral, and education with respect to SFOFP for patients with DRF older than 45 years. Secondary objective was to explore therapist's preferences in content and delivery of knowledge translation tools that would support implementation of SFOFP.

METHODS

A cross-sectional multinational (Canada, the United States, and India) survey was conducted among 272 therapists from August to October 2014. Completed surveys were analyzed descriptively.

RESULTS

Surveys were completed by 157 therapists. Most respondents were from the United States (59%), certified hand therapists (54%), and females (87%). Although 65%-90% believed that they had knowledge about SFOFP assessment, treatment, and referral options, 55% did not include it in their routine practice for patients with DRF. Most assessed medication history (82%) and never used a Fracture Risk Assessment Tool (90%) or lower extremity muscle strength testing (54%) to identify those at risk of secondary fractures. With respect to treatment, approximately 33% always used upper extremity muscle strengthening exercises. Most reported rarely (sometimes to never) using balance (79%), lower extremity muscle strengthening (85%), bone strengthening (54%), or community-based physical activity (72%) programs. Similarly, when surveyed about patient education, therapists rarely (sometimes to never) advised patients about web-based resources (94%), regular vision testing (92%), diet for good bone health (87%), bone density evaluation (86%), footwear correction (73%), and hazard identification (67%). Most hand therapists were interested to receive more information on SFOFP for patients with DRF. Nearly one-half preferred to have Web sites for patients, and two-fifth were in favor of pamphlets for patients.

CONCLUSION

Current practice patterns reveal care gaps and limited implementation with respect to SFOFP for patients with DRF. Future research should focus on web-based educational/knowledge translation strategies to promote implementation of multifactorial fall risk screening and hand therapist's engagement in SFOFP for patients with DRF.

Secondary Fracture Prevention: Consensus Clinical Recommendations from a Multistakeholder Coalition

Osteoporosis-related fractures are undertreated, due in part to misinformation about recommended approaches to patient care and discrepancies among treatment guidelines. To help bridge this gap and improve patient outcomes, the American Society for Bone and Mineral Research assembled a multistakeholder coalition to develop clinical recommendations for the optimal prevention of secondary fracture among people aged 65 years and older with a hip or vertebral fracture. The coalition developed 13 recommendations (7 primary and 6 secondary) strongly supported by the empirical literature. The coalition recommends increased communication with patients regarding fracture risk, mortality and morbidity outcomes, and fracture risk reduction. Risk assessment (including fall history) should occur at regular intervals with referral to physical and/or occupational therapy as appropriate. Oral, intravenous, and subcutaneous pharmacotherapies are efficacious and can reduce risk of future fracture. Patients need education, however, about the benefits and risks of both treatment and not receiving treatment. Oral bisphosphonates alendronate and risedronate are first-line options and are generally well tolerated; otherwise, intravenous zoledronic acid and subcutaneous denosumab can be considered. Anabolic agents are expensive but may be beneficial for selected patients at high risk. Optimal duration of pharmacotherapy is unknown but because the risk for second fractures is highest in the early post-fracture period, prompt treatment is recommended. Adequate dietary or supplemental vitamin D and calcium intake should be assured. Individuals being treated for osteoporosis should be reevaluated for fracture risk routinely, including via patient education about osteoporosis and fractures and monitoring for adverse treatment effects. Patients should be strongly encouraged to avoid tobacco, consume alcohol in moderation at most, and engage in regular exercise and fall prevention strategies. Finally, referral to endocrinologists or other osteoporosis specialists may be warranted for individuals who experience repeated fracture or bone loss and those with complicating comorbidities (eg, hyperparathyroidism, chronic kidney disease). © 2019 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.

Assessing the risk of osteoporotic fractures: the Ecuadorian FRAX model

The FRAX tool incorporates data on the incidence of fractures and mortality in each country. The epidemiology of fractures changes over time, this makes it necessary to update the specific FRAX model of each population. It is shown that there are differences between old and new FRAX models in older individuals.

PURPOSE

A new FRAX® model for Ecuador was released online in April 2019. This paper describes the data used to build the revised model, its characteristics, and how intervention and assessment thresholds were constructed.

METHODS

The national rates of hip fracture incidence standardized by age and sex from the age of 40 years for 2016 were used to synthesize a FRAX model for Ecuador. For other major fractures, Ecuadorian incidence rates were calculated using ratios obtained in Malmö, Sweden, for other major osteoporotic fractures. The new FRAX model was compared with the previous model released in 2012. Assessment and intervention thresholds were based on age-specific probabilities of a major osteoporotic fracture equivalent to women with a previous fracture.

RESULTS

Fracture incidence rates increase with age. The probability of hip or major fractures at 10 years increased in patients with a clinical risk factor, lower BMI, female sex, a higher age, and a lower BMD T-score. Compared to the previous model, the new FRAX model gave similar 10-year fracture probabilities in men and women age less than70 years but substantially higher above this age. Notwithstanding, there were very close correlations in fracture probabilities between the two models (> 0.99) so that the revision had little impact on the rank order of risk.

CONCLUSIONS

The FRAX tool provides a country-specific fracture prediction model for Ecuador. This update of the model is based on the original FRAX methodology, which has been validated externally in several independent cohorts. The FRAX model is an evolving tool that is being continuously refined, as the databases of each country are updated with more epidemiological information.

Clinical Impact of the Fracture Risk Assessment Tool on the Treatment Decision for Osteoporosis in Patients with Knee Osteoarthritis: A Multicenter Comparative Study of the Fracture Risk Assessment Tool and World Health Organization Criteria

Background: To compare the frequency of high-risk osteoporotic fracture in patients with knee OA (OA) using the fracture risk assessment tool (FRAX) and the bone mineral density (BMD). Methods: We retrospectively assessed 282 Korean patients with knee OA who visited five medical centers and 1165 healthy controls (HCs) aged ≥50 years without knee OA. After matching for age, sex, and body mass index, 478 subjects (239 patients with knee OA and 239 HCs) were included. Results: Based on the BMD, the frequency of osteoporosis was 40.2% in patients with knee OA and 36.4% in HCs. The predicted mean FRAX major osteoporotic fracture probabilities calculated with or without femur neck BMD differed significantly between the knee OA and HCs (6.9 ± 3.8% versus 6.1 ± 2.8%, p = 0.000 and 8 ± 3.6% versus 6.8 ± 2.3%, p < 0.001, respectively). The mean FRAX hip fracture probabilities calculated with or without femur neck BMD differed significantly in the knee OA and HCs (2.1 ± 2.4% versus 1.7 ± 1.8%, p = 0.006 and 3 ± 2.3% versus 2.4 ± 1.6%, p < 0.001, respectively). Conclusion: Our study suggests that FRAX may have a clinical impact on treatment decisions to reduce osteoporotic facture in patients with knee OA.

Administrative healthcare data applied to fracture risk assessment

Fracture risk scores generated from population-based administrative healthcare data showed comparable or better discrimination than the Fracture Risk Assessment Tool (FRAX) scores computed without bone mineral density for predicting incident major osteoporotic fracture. Administrative data may be useful to identify individuals at high fracture risk at the population level.

PURPOSE

To evaluate the discrimination of fracture risk scores defined using inputs available from administrative data for predicting incident major osteoporotic fracture (MOF) and hip fracture (HF) alone.

METHODS

Using the Manitoba Bone Mineral Density (BMD) Database (1997-2013), we identified 61,041 individuals aged 50 years or older with healthcare coverage following their first BMD test. We calculated two-modified FRAX)scores based on administrative data: FRAX-A and FRAX-A⁺. The FRAX-A modification used all FRAX inputs, except for BMD, body mass index, and parental HF, while the FRAX-A⁺ modification using all FRAX-A inputs plus a comorbidity score, number of hospitalizations in the 3 years prior to the BMD test, depression diagnosis, and dementia diagnosis. FRAX scores computed with BMD (i.e., FRAX [BMD]) and without BMD (i.e., FRAX [no-BMD]) were the comparators.

RESULTS

During a mean of 7 years of follow-up, we identified 5306 (8.7%) incident MOF and 1532 (2.5%) incident HF. The c-statistic for MOF associated with FRAX-A was lower than FRAX (BMD) (0.655 vs 0.675; P < 0.05) and comparable to FRAX (no-BMD) (0.654; P = 0.07). The c-statistic for MOF using FRAX-A⁺ (0.663) was lower than FRAX (BMD) but higher than FRAX (no-BMD) (both P < 0.05). For predicting incident HF, c-statistics associated with FRAX-A (0.762) and FRAX-A⁺ (0.767) were lower than FRAX (BMD) (0.789) and FRAX (no-BMD) (0.773; both P < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

FRAX-A and FRAX-A⁺ showed comparable or better discrimination than FRAX without BMD for predicting incident MOF, but slightly lower discrimination for HF alone.

Reference markers of bone turnover for prediction of fracture: a meta-analysis

OBJECTIVE

To explore whether bone turnover biomarkers (BTMs), i.e., C-terminal telopeptide of type I collagen (CTX) and procollagen type I aminoterminal propeptide (PINP), are associated with fracture.

METHODS

We searched electronic database including PubMed, Embase and Cochrane Library, and the reference lists of relevant articles published from inception to August 22, 2018. An updated meta-analysis was performed to assess the prediction value of CTX and PINP in fracture.

RESULTS

Nine articles met our inclusion criteria and were included in the meta-analysis. The crude and adjusted effect size between PINP and fracture were extracted from two and five studies, respectively. PINP was not associated with fracture incidence without adjusting covariates (crude GR, 1.03; 95% CI, 0.91-1.17). After adjusting for potential confounders, PINP demonstrated a significant positive association with fracture (adjusted GR, 1.28; 95% CI, 1.15-1.42). In the subgroup analysis of studies after adjusting covariates, there were significant associations in women. Both the crude (1.16, 95%CI, 1.04-1.20) and adjusted GR (1.20, 95%CI, 1.05-1.37) shown positive relationships between CTX and fracture, which were extracted from four and six studies, separately. The sensitivity analysis confirmed the stability of the results. In the subgroup analysis of studies after adjusting covariates, there were significant associations in the subgroups of elderly, female, and hip fracture patients.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results indicate a statistically significant but modest association between BTMs (s-PINP or s-CTX) and future fracture risk after adjusting for BMD and clinical risk factors. The causal relationship between the two clinical conditions requires future validation with more standardized studies.

REGISTRATION NUMBER

CRD42018107879.

Utility of FRAX (fracture risk assessment tool) in primary care and family practice setting in India

The prevalence of osteoporosis in postmenopausal women is about 35 to 50% and the mortality associated with hip fractures is about 20%. Despite these figures, osteoporosis continues to be under diagnosed in the primary care setting. One of the reasons for this is attributed to the poor availability of DXA (Dual Energy X-ray Absorptiometry) scanners in rural areas. The fracture risk assessment tool (FRAX) is an online web-based tool that takes into account multiple factors that help in predicting the 10-year risk of developing hip or major osteoporotic fractures. The tool was developed and validated in independent cohorts. The advantages of using the FRAX tool are that, it is inexpensive, easily available, and does not need the technical expertise that is required in the use of a DXA scanner. Besides these merits, it is a tool that is easy to use for the rural health care worker as well as the family physician in identifying those subjects at risk for developing osteoporotic fractures. These benefits make it a suitable fracture prediction tool in the primary care setting in India.

Osteoporosis in Older Persons: Old and New Players

Osteoporosis is the most common bone disease in humans. Older persons are at higher risk of osteoporotic fractures that also result in poor quality of life, disability, loss of independence, institutionalization, and higher mortality. Osteoporosis shares a distinct pathophysiologic relationship with sarcopenia, an age-related disease comprising declines in muscle mass, strength, or function. The combination of these two diseases is known as osteosarcopenia. Understanding the pathophysiology of osteosarcopenia, in addition to its diagnostic and therapeutic approaches, is key in providing older adults with the best falls and fractures prevention strategies. This review provides updated information on new discoveries on the combined pathophysiology of osteoporosis and sarcopenia that have led to the development of novel therapeutic approaches. New recommendations for the use of risk calculators and densitometry are also presented in this review as well as evidence on current and upcoming pharmacologic treatments to prevent falls and fractures in older persons. J Am Geriatr Soc 67:831-840, 2019.

FRAX First - Pragmatic Approach in Resource Poor Settings

BACKGROUND

Fracture Risk Assessment Tool (FRAX) is a fracture prediction tool that uses clinical risk factors with or without bone mineral density (BMD). BMD is difficult to obtain in resource-limited setting. Hence, we aimed to compare fracture risk prediction by FRAX without BMD (FRAX) and FRAX with BMD (FRAX/BMD).

OBJECTIVE

We intended to determine if FRAX and FRAX/BMD would produce identical predictions for 10-year probability of hip fracture and major osteoporotic fracture (MOF). We also desired to study the risk factors that could help to identify the similarity of risk prediction.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A retrospective review of patients who underwent BMD measurement and FRAX assessment was conducted. Men and women >50 years of age with osteopenia and osteoporosis according to the World Health Organization (WHO) definition at one or more sites were included. FRAX prediction scores were calculated with and without BMD using the FRAX India tool.

RESULTS

Of 239 subjects, 207 (86.61%) had identical fracture risk predictions with or without BMD in FRAX estimation. Mean age was lower (P = 0.009), whereas body mass index (BMI), hip BMD, spine BMD, and history of previous fracture were higher (P = 0.005, P < 0.001, P < 0.001, and P = 0.02, respectively) in the identical prediction group.

CONCLUSION

In our study, FRAX provided fracture risk prediction alike FRAX/BMD in most of the cases. FRAX is a good predictor of fractures especially in younger patients with higher BMI. Therefore, we conclude that FRAX is an effective tool to predict osteoporotic fracture risk and would be an inexpensive alternative when access to dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) is limited.

Fracture Risk Assessment Tool (FRAX®) Results Calculated With and Without Bone Mineral Density Values for the Evaluation of Fracture Risk in Postmenopausal Women With Osteopenia

The aim of this study was to evaluate the agreement between fracture risk predictions based on calculations made with and without bone mineral density (BMD) values using the Fracture Risk Assessment Tool (FRAX®) in Turkish postmenopausal women with osteopenia and to compare the treatment recommendations. This descriptive, cross-sectional study included postmenopausal women aged 50-79 yr with a diagnosis of osteoporosis who were not receiving any treatment. A questionnaire was administered to the participants face-to-face to obtain sociodemographic characteristics, medical history, and fracture history. Fracture risk was calculated with FRAX® separately with and without BMD. The study included 230 postmenopausal patients with osteopenia. The mean age of the patients was determined as 63.16 ± 7.59 yr, and the mean body mass index was 30.61 ± 5.02. The intraclass correlation coefficient values of the 10-yr major osteoporotic (MO) fracture and hip fracture score agreement with FRAX® with and without BMD were mean 0.486 and 0.462, respectively. The risk of MO fracture with an intervention threshold of ≥20 was determined in 227/230 patients (98.7%), and the risk of hip fracture with treatment recommendations of ≥3 was determined in 204/230 patients (88.7%). Treatment recommendations in patients with no fracture history and secondary osteoporosis were 100% for MO fracture and 94.7% (123/130) for hip fracture risk. The treatment recommendation rates of FRAX® with and without BMD were similar for the majority of postmenopausal women with osteopenia. The agreement between the values was of a moderate level. When patients with a fracture history and secondary osteoporosis were excluded, the agreement increased. Even though values with BMD are of basic importance for medical treatment in postmenopausal women, the use of measurements evaluating fracture risk, such as FRAX® without BMD, could be useful in postmenopausal women with osteopenia.

The diagnostic threshold for osteoporosis impedes fracture prevention in women at high risk for fracture: A registry-based cohort study

The diagnostic threshold for osteoporosis, a bone mineral density (BMD) T-score ≤ -2.5, signals an increased risk for fracture. However, most fragility fractures arise among the majority of women with 'osteopenia' or 'normal' BMD. We hypothesized that a BMD T-score of -2.5, even if not intended as a treatment threshold, paradoxically may create disincentive to initiating treatment of women with osteopenia or normal BMD at high risk for fracture. From a population-based BMD registry covering the Province of Manitoba, Canada, we identified 3735 untreated women aged ≥ 50 years undergoing BMD screening in 2006-2015 found to qualify for Osteoporosis Canada guidelines-based treatment. The main outcome was prescription of an approved osteoporosis medications in the year after BMD testing ascertained from a population-based pharmacy database. We estimated adjusted odds ratios (OR, 95% confidence interval [CI]) for treatment initiation based on BMD, major fracture history (non-traumatic vertebral, hip or multiple fractures), age, and calendar year (to examine the impact of treatment guidelines published in 2010). Among these women, 50% (1853) initiated treatment: 71% with osteoporosis, 21% with osteopenia, and 5% with normal BMD with similar values in those with a prior major fracture (71%, 19%, 5%, respectively). Compared to women with osteoporosis, adjusted ORs for treatment of high risk women with osteopenia or normal BMD alone were 0.10 (95% CI 0.09-0.12) and 0.02 (95% CI 0.01-0.04), respectively, and no higher in women with a prior major fracture (OR 1.00, 95% CI 0.84-1.19) or following introduction of treatment guidelines (p = 0.294). In summary, we found evidence that the diagnostic threshold for osteoporosis may serve as a disincentive to initiation of treatment in many women at high risk for incident fracture.

Analysis of kyphosis, vertebral fracture and bone mineral density measurement in women living in nursing homes

OBJECTIVES

To analyze the relationship between vertebral fracture, degree of kyphosis, and BMD in women living in nursing homes.

METHODS

This cross-sectional study was carried out in the Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Hitit University Hospital, Corum, Turkey, betweenJanuary 2014 and January 2015. Of the 126 female patients who participated in the study, 48 lived in nursing homes (nursing-home-group [NHG]), 78 lived in non-nursing home settings (control-group [CG]). Vertebral fractures were evaluated via the semi-quantitative Genant method. Cases in which a Cobb angle measured 40 degrees or more resulted in a diagnosis of kyphosis.

RESULTS

The mean age of participants in the NHG was 77.2±7.6 years and 76.8±6.2 years in the CG (p greater than 0.05). The kyphosis rate in the NHG was found to be higher at 52.1% compared to 27.7% for the CG (p less than 0.001). In the NHG, 68.7% had osteoporosis, 31.3% had osteopenia; in the CG, 55.2% had osteoporosis, 32% had osteopenia, 12.8% had normal values (p less than 0.05).The vertebral fracture rate was 37.5% in the NHG and 24.3% in the CG (p greater than 0.05). The Cobb angle had correlation with the number of fractures in both groups (p less than 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

The osteoporosis and kyphosis rates of women living in NHG were higher than those of women living in CG. As kyphosis and the number of fractures are correlated, it is important to analyze kyphosis in women residing in NHG.

Use of a fracture prevention screening algorithm predicts self-reported falls in postmenopausal women

Background and Purpose: The prevention of falls and fall-related fractures following menopause is an important health initiative. The Fracture Prevention Screening Algorithm (FPSA) uniquely uses fracture risk to prompt fall risk assessment to classify both fall and fracture risk in individuals. The purpose of this study was to determine whether use of the FPSA accurately predicted self-reported falls in post-menopausal women over one year. Methods: 142 postmenopausal women were recruited. Based on Fracture Risk Assessment Tool (FRAX®) scores, women with a ≥3% 10-year probability of hip fracture (high risk), or who self-identified as having balance problems or a fall history, underwent the Functional Gait Assessment (FGA) to estimate fall risk (high risk = ≤22/30). This allowed classification on the FPSA into one of four risk categories: low fall/low fracture risk; low fall/high fracture risk; high fall/low fracture risk; high fall/high fracture risk. Participants were contacted monthly for one year to determine fall and injury occurrence. Results: Fall/injury surveillance was conducted with 136 subjects over one year. Compared to women in the low fall/low fracture risk group, both high fall risk groups demonstrated significantly greater fall rates. Falls were 81-89% more likely in women with FGA scores of 22/30 or less. All injuries were rare events across all risk strata and did not differ between risk groups. Conclusion: These findings support the use of fracture risk as a trigger for fall screening to comprehensively classify risk in post-menopausal women as proposed by the FPSA.

Risk Factors for Osteoporosis in Postmenopausal Women - from The Point of View of Primary Care Gynecologist

INTRODUCTION

Osteoporosis is a highly prevalent public health problem with osteoporosis-related fractures that account for high morbidity and mortality. Therefore, prevention strategies and early detection of osteoporosis should be carried out in primary gynaecological care units, so as to substantially reduce the risk of fractures and allow the best treatment option for a particular woman.

METHODS

From 2002 to 2011, we recruited 2956 women. Of the total number of women, we additionally extrapolated 1274 women aged 60-75 years, assumingly, the group of women at higher risk of osteoporosis. Demographic and anthropometrical data as well as the information regarding risk factors for osteoporosis were collected using a questionnaire.

RESULTS

The odds ratio for osteoporosis increased by 8% (p=0.001) with each additional year of life. The OP prevalence increased with age from 24.9% in 60-64 years to 37.4% in 70-75 years. In non-smokers the odds ratio for osteoporosis was 0.424, which was statistically significant (p<0.05). BMI <18.5 increased the odds ratio for osteoporosis by 2 times, which was not statistically significant. In women 60-75 years old (N=1274), the risk of fractures increased with increasing age, considering previous fractures in the last 5 years (p<0.001), hip fracture (p=0.001), wrist fracture (p=0.002) and observed height loss (p<0.001). Hormone therapy (HT) use decreased the prevalence of OP by 25% in comparison with non-users.

CONCLUSION

Primary care gynaecologist with a DXA centre has every opportunity for a holistic approach to the management of postmenopausal women, including the prevention and treatment of postmenopausal osteoporosis.

Comparison of three tools for predicting primary osteoporosis in an elderly male population in Beijing: a cross-sectional study

Purpose

In this cross-sectional study, three clinical tools, the Osteoporosis Self-Assessment Tool for Asians (OSTA), Fracture Risk Assessment Tool (FRAX) without bone mineral density (BMD), and body mass index (BMI), for predicting primary osteoporosis (OP) were compared and ideal thresholds for omission of screening BMD were proposed in a community-dwelling elderly Han Beijing male population.

Patients and methods

A total of 1,349 community-dwelling elderly Han Beijing males aged ≥50 years were enrolled in this study. All subjects completed a questionnaire and measured BMD by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA). Osteoporosis was defined as a T-score of -2.5 SD or lower than that of the average young adult in different diagnostic criteria (lumbar spine [L1-L4], femoral neck, total hip, worst hip, and World Health Organization [WHO]). FRAX without BMD, OSTA, and BMI were assessed for predicting OP by receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves. Sensitivity, specificity, and areas under the ROC curves (AUCs) were determined. Ideal thresholds for omission of screening BMD were proposed.

Results

The prevalence of OP ranged from 1.8% to 12.8% according to different diagnostic criteria. This study showed that the BMI has highest discriminating ability. The AUC of FRAX without BMD ranged from 0.536 to 0.630, which suggested limiting predictive value for identifying OP in elderly Beijing male. The AUCs of BMI (0.801-0.880) were slightly better than OSTA (0.722-0.874) in predicting OP at all sites. The AUC of BMI to identify OP in worst hip was 0.824, yielding a sensitivity of 84.8% and a specificity of 64.4%. 40% of participants on BMD measurements saved only 0.1%-2.7% missed OP. Compared to OSTA and FRAX without BMD, the BMI got the best predictive value for OP.

Conclusion

BMI may be a simple and effective tool for identifying OP in the elderly male population in Beijing to omit BMD screening reasonably.

Risk factors for osteoporosis in postmenopausal women – from the point of view of primary care gynecologist

Introduction

Osteoporosis is a highly prevalent public health problem with osteoporosis-related fractures that account for high morbidity and mortality. Therefore, prevention strategies and early detection of osteoporosis should be carried out in primary gynaecological care units, so as to substantially reduce the risk of fractures and allow the best treatment option for a particular woman.

Methods

From 2002 to 2011, we recruited 2956 women. Of the total number of women, we additionally extrapolated 1274 women aged 60-75 years, assumingly, the group of women at higher risk of osteoporosis. Demographic and anthropometrical data as well as the information regarding risk factors for osteoporosis were collected using a questionnaire.

Results

The odds ratio for osteoporosis increased by 8% (p=0.001) with each additional year of life. The OP prevalence increased with age from 24.9% in 60-64 years to 37.4% in 70-75 years. In non-smokers the odds ratio for osteoporosis was 0.424, which was statistically significant (p<0.05). BMI <18.5 increased the odds ratio for osteoporosis by 2 times, which was not statistically significant. In women 60-75 years old (N=1274), the risk of fractures increased with increasing age, considering previous fractures in the last 5 years (p<0.001), hip fracture (p=0.001), wrist fracture (p=0.002) and observed height loss (p<0.001). Hormone therapy (HT) use decreased the prevalence of OP by 25% in comparison with non-users.

Conclusion

Primary care gynaecologist with a DXA centre has every opportunity for a holistic approach to the management of postmenopausal women, including the prevention and treatment of postmenopausal osteoporosis.

Screening for osteoporosis following non-vertebral fractures in patients aged 50 and older independently of gender or level of trauma energy-a Swiss trauma center approach

Screening in a standardized manner for osteoporosis in non-vertebral fracture patients aged 50 and older independently of both gender and level of trauma energy yielded the indication for osteoporotic therapy for every fourth male high-energy fracture patient.

PURPOSE

This study aimed to identify the rate of osteoporosis in patients of both genders after fracture independently of the underlying level of trauma energy.

METHODS

A random cohort of patients aged 50 or older with non-vertebral fractures participated in a standardized diagnostic protocol to evaluate the indication for treatment of osteoporosis (number needed to screen (NNS)). Univariate and multivariate analysis as well as correlation testing were performed to determine statistical relationships. Significance was set at p < 0.05.

RESULTS

Of 478 fracture patients with a mean age of 69.3 ± 11.8 years, 317 (66.3%) were female and 161 (33.7%) male. One hundred nineteen patients (24.9%) sustained high-energy fractures (HEFs) and 359 (75.1%) low-energy fractures (LEFs). Twenty-eight percent of males and 47% of females qualified as osteoporotic in densitometry (dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA)), resulting in a NNS of 2.1 for women and 3.6 for men. The indication for treatment of osteoporosis increased to an NNS of 1.5 for females and 2.4 for males if the fracture risk assessment tool (FRAX) was included in the diagnostics (DXA and FRAX). With regard to the energy of trauma, the NNS for treatment following DXA and FRAX was 1.5 for LEF and 2.9 for HEF. Subgroup analysis revealed that HEF males within the decennia 50+ and 80+ had an NNS of around 3, i.e., comparable to females and about twice as high as LEF patients.

CONCLUSIONS

These preliminary findings appear to confirm the pragmatic approach to screening in a standardized manner for osteoporosis in all non-vertebral fracture patients aged 50 and older-independently of both gender and level of trauma energy.

Putting the Brakes on Breaks: Osteoporosis Screening and Fracture Prevention

Introduction

This prospective study sought to implement a screening tool to identify and risk stratify at-risk patients for osteoporosis and evaluate patient knowledge of osteoporosis and fragility fractures in an orthopedic trauma clinic affiliated with a level 1 trauma academic center.

Methods

Of 297 eligible patients, 291 were screened and risk stratified. Patients completed an osteoporosis screening questionnaire and were risk stratified. Lifestyle advice was given to patients at low fracture risk. A dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry scan was ordered for patients at intermediate fracture risk. A referral was initiated for treatment to a bone health specialist in high fracture risk patients. Twenty patients completed a knowledge-based pretest/posttest.

Results

A total of 291 patients were screened, which represented 97.7% of patients over the age of 50. Of those patients, 165 (56.7%) patients met criteria for further osteoporosis evaluation as they were considered either intermediate or high risk for future fractures. One hundred thirty-six (82.4%) patients were referred for bone mineral density evaluation. For the knowledge-based evaluation portion, patients had a 33% gain in knowledge (P = .0004). The largest knowledge deficit identified pertained to osteoporosis risk factors and lifestyle management.

Discussion

The use of an osteoporosis screening questionnaire in the orthopedic trauma clinic produced clinically significant improvement in identification of at-risk patients. A lack of knowledge regarding osteoporosis and fragility fractures was found to exist among these patients.

Conclusion

The implementation of an osteoporosis screening tool to identify, risk stratify, and treat patients with osteoporosis and related fragility fractures can be successfully integrated into a busy clinical practice.

Validation of FRAX and the impact of self-reported falls among elderly in a general population: the HUNT study, Norway

Fracture Risk Assessment Tool (FRAX) without bone mineral density (BMD) for hip fracture prediction was validated in a Norwegian population 50-90 years. Fracture risk increased with higher FRAX score, and the observed number of hip fractures agreed well with the predicted number, except for the youngest and oldest men. Self-reported fall was an independent risk factor for fracture in women.

INTRODUCTION

The primary aim was to validate FRAX without BMD for hip fracture prediction in a Norwegian population of men and women 50-90 years. Secondary, to study whether information of falls could improve prediction of fractures in the subgroup aged 70-90 years.

METHODS

Data were obtained from the third survey of the Nord-Trøndelag Health Study (HUNT3), the fracture registry in Nord-Trøndelag, and the Norwegian Prescription Database (NorPD), including 15,432 women and 13,585 men. FRAX hip without BMD was calculated, and hip fractures were registered for a median follow-up of 5.2 years. The number of estimated and observed fractures was assessed, ROC curves with area under the curve (AUC), and Cox regression analyses. For the group aged 70-90 years, self-reported falls the last year before HUNT3 were included in the Cox regression model.

RESULTS

The risk of fracture increased with higher FRAX score. When FRAX groups were categorized in a 10-year percentage risk for hip fracture as follows, <4, 4-7.9, 8-11.9, and ≥12%, the hazard ratio (HR) for hip fracture between the lowest and the highest group was 17.80 (95% CI: 12.86-24.65) among women and 23.40 (13.93-39.30) in men. Observed number of hip fractures agreed quite well with the predicted number, except for the youngest and oldest men. AUC was 0.81 (0.78-0.83) for women and 0.79 (0.76-0.83) for men. Self-reported fall was an independent risk factor for fracture in women (HR 1.64, 1.20-2.24), and among men, this was not significant (1.09, 0.65-1.83).

CONCLUSIONS

FRAX without BMD predicted hip fracture reasonably well. In the age group 70-90 years, falls seemed to imply an additional risk among women.

Lower serum P1NP/βCTX ratio and hypoalbuminemia are independently associated with osteoporotic nonvertebral fractures in older adults

Purpose

To estimate the discriminative value of serum P1NP/βCTX ratio and albumin levels in hospitalized orthogeriatric patients with and without nonvertebral fractures.

Methods

In 1,239 orthogeriatric patients (mean age 78.1±9.52 years, 69.1% women) including 854 (68.9%) with osteoporotic nonvertebral fractures (455 [36.7%] with hip fracture [HF]) and 385 (31.1%) without fractures, markers of bone formation (procollagen type 1 N-terminal propeptide [P1NP], osteocalcin [OC], and bone resorption (beta-C-terminal cross-linking telopeptide of type 1 collagen [βCTX]), indices of mineral metabolism, and parameters of liver and renal functions were assessed; data on clinical and laboratory characteristics were collected prospectively.

Results

Both lower serum P1NP/βCTX ratio and albumin concentration (as continuous or categorical variables) were independently associated with fracture presence in multivariate logistic regressions. Compared with the highest P1NP/βCTX tertile, the prevalence of HF, after adjustment for multiple covariates, was 3-fold higher in the lowest tertile and 1.5 times higher in the middle tertile; presence of any fracture was 2.3- and 1.6-fold higher, respectively; patients with albumin levels in the lowest tertile had multivariate odds ratio (OR) of 4.6 for HF and 2.8 for any fracture, in the middle tertile the ORs were 2.2 and 1.3, respectively. The P1NP/βCTX <100.0 (median) and hypoalbuminemia (<33 g/L) demonstrated area under the curve values for HF of 0.802 and 0.806, respectively, and for any fractures of 0.711 and 0.706, respectively. When both characteristics were combined, the ORs for HF or any fracture, compared with the nonfractured group, were 7.8 and 3.2, respectively, with an accuracy of 79.6% and 71.6%, respectively.

Conclusions

In orthogeriatric patients, both serum P1NP/βCTX ratio and albumin levels demonstrated an inverse dose–effect relationship with the prevalence of nonvertebral fractures and independently indicated fracture presence with acceptable discriminatory power. Lower P1NP/βCTX (<100) and hypoalbuminemia could be useful simple additive prognostic tools for fracture risk stratification in the elderly.

How to predict the risk of fracture in HIV?

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Skeletal fractures are more common in HIV, and impact the medical, functional and economic status of frequently vulnerable patients. Identifying asymptomatic patients with low bone mineral density (BMD)/osteoporosis requiring intervention can be expected to reduce fracture risk and complications. Clinical tools are available to determine fracture risk in the general population and are being evaluated in HIV patients. The FRAX calculator, incorporating demographics and risk factors for osteoporosis, with or without BMD results, has been investigated most often in HIV patients.

RECENT FINDINGS

The few published studies that have calculated the 10-year FRAX risk for both major osteoporosis and hip fractures without BMD generally show limited precision in predicting the presence of osteoporosis severe enough to initiate treatment. It remains uncertain whether using HIV as a secondary risk factor and adding dual X-ray absorptiometry (DXA)-BMD information improves case-finding compared with using DXA results only. Not incorporating risks relevant to aging HIV patients such as antiretroviral exposure, hepatitis C virus coinfection and history of falls is other potential limitation.

SUMMARY

Accurate screening tools using clinical risk factors alone to determine fracture risk in HIV are not yet available. Further research and validation studies are necessary.