Impact of osteoporosis and osteoporosis medications on fracture healing: a narrative review

Antiresorptive medications do not negatively affect fracture healing in humans. Teriparatide may decrease time to fracture healing. Romosozumab has not shown a beneficial effect on human fracture healing.

BACKGROUND

Fracture healing is a complex process. Uncertainty exists over the influence of osteoporosis and the medications used to treat it on fracture healing.

METHODS

Narrative review authored by the members of the Fracture Working Group of the Committee of Scientific Advisors of the International Osteoporosis Foundation (IOF), on behalf of the IOF and the Société Internationale de Chirurgie Orthopédique et de Traumatologie (SICOT).

RESULTS

Fracture healing is a multistep process. Most fractures heal through a combination of intramembranous and endochondral ossification. Radiographic imaging is important for evaluating fracture healing and for detecting delayed or non-union. The presence of callus formation, bridging trabeculae, and a decrease in the size of the fracture line over time are indicative of healing. Imaging must be combined with clinical parameters and patient-reported outcomes. Animal data support a negative effect of osteoporosis on fracture healing; however, clinical data do not appear to corroborate with this. Evidence does not support a delay in the initiation of antiresorptive therapy following acute fragility fractures. There is no reason for suspension of osteoporosis medication at the time of fracture if the person is already on treatment. Teriparatide treatment may shorten fracture healing time at certain sites such as distal radius; however, it does not prevent non-union or influence union rate. The positive effect on fracture healing that romosozumab has demonstrated in animals has not been observed in humans.

CONCLUSION

Overall, there appears to be no deleterious effect of osteoporosis medications on fracture healing. The benefit of treating osteoporosis and the urgent necessity to mitigate imminent refracture risk after a fracture should be given prime consideration. It is imperative that new radiological and biological markers of fracture healing be identified. It is also important to synthesize clinical and basic science methodologies to assess fracture healing, so that a convergence of the two frameworks can be achieved.

Osteosarcopenia: Prevalence and 10-Year Fracture and Mortality Risk - A Longitudinal, Population-Based Study of 75-Year-Old Women

Osteosarcopenia is the coexistence of low bone mass and sarcopenia. In older women, its prevalence is not well described, and it is unknown if sarcopenia is additive to low bone mass for fracture and mortality risk. The study investigated prevalence of osteosarcopenia and if osteosarcopenia is associated with higher fracture and mortality risk than low bone mass alone in older community-dwelling women. The longitudinal, population-based OPRA Cohort (n = 1044), all aged 75 at inclusion, followed for 10 years. Using WHO and EWGSOP2 definitions for low bone mass (T-score < -1.0 femoral neck) and sarcopenia (knee strength; appendicular lean muscle mass) women were categorized (1) Normal, (2) Low bone mass (LBM), and 3) Osteosarcopenia (probable; confirmed). Risk of hip, major osteoporotic fracture, and mortality were estimated. Osteosarcopeniaconfirmed prevalence increased from age 75 to 80 and 85 from 3.0% (29/970) to 4.9% (32/656) to 9.2% (33/358) but prevalence is potentially 2-4 times higher (11.8%, 13.4%, 20.3%) based on osteosarcopeniaprobable. Having osteosarcopeniaprobable significantly increased 10-year risk of hip fracture (HRadj 2.67 [1.34-5.32]), major osteoporotic fracture (HRadj 2.04 [1.27-3.27]), and mortality (HRadj 1.91 [1.21-3.04]). In contrast, LBM increased osteoporotic fracture risk (HRadj 2.08 [1.46-2.97], but not hip fracture (HRadj 1.62 [0.92-2.85]) or mortality (HRadj 0.94 [0.64-1.38]). Median time-to-hip fracture was 7.6 years (normal), 6.0 years (LBM), and 5.7 years (osteosarcopeniaprobable). Prevalence of confirmed osteosarcopenia is almost 10% at age 85. Probable osteosarcopenia significantly increased risk of hip and major osteoporotic fractures and mortality more so than low bone mass alone.

Differential expression of the inflammatory ciita gene may be accompanied by altered bone properties in intact sex steroid-deficient female rats

OBJECTIVE

The class II transactivator (CIITA), encoded by the CIITA gene, controls expression of immune response regulators, which affect bone homeostasis. Previously, we investigated a functional CIITA polymorphism in elderly women. Women carrying the allele associated with lower CIITA levels displayed higher bone mineral density (BMD), but also higher bone loss. The present exploratory study in a rat model sought to investigate effects of differential expression of Ciita on bone structural integrity and strength. Two strains DA (normal-to-high expression) and DA.VRA4 (lower expression) underwent ovariectomy (OVX) or sham-surgery at ~ 14-weeks of age (DA OVX n = 8, sham n = 4; DA.VRA4 OVX n = 10, sham n = 2). After 16-weeks, femoral BMD and bone mineral content (BMC) were measured and morphometry and biomechanical testing performed.

RESULTS

In DA.VRA4 rats, BMD/BMC, cross-sectional area and biomechanical properties were lower. Ciita expression was accompanied by OVX-induced changes to cross-sectional area and femoral shaft strength; DA rats had lower maximum load-to-fracture. Thus, while lower Ciita expression associated with lower bone mass, OVX induced changes to structural and mechanical bone properties were less pronounced.

CONCLUSION

The data tentatively suggests association between Ciita expression and structural and mechanical bone properties, and a possible role in bone changes resulting from estrogen deficiency.

Pro-Inflammatory Proteins Associated with Frailty and Its Progression-A Longitudinal Study in Community-Dwelling Women

The complex pathophysiology underlying biological aging creates challenges for identifying biomarkers associated with frailty. This longitudinal, nontargeted proteomics study aimed to identify proteins associated with frailty, particularly the change from nonfrail to frail. The population-based Osteoporosis Prospective Risk Assessment cohort includes women all of whom are 75 years old at inclusion (n = 1044) and reassessed at 80 years (n = 715) and 85 years (n = 382). A deficits in health frailty index (FI) and 92 plasma proteins (Olink CVD-II panel) were available at all ages. The identical age facilitated differentiating chronological and biological aging. Bidirectional analyses, performed cross-sectionally and longitudinally, used regression models controlled for false discovery rate (FDR), across 5- and 10-year time windows and longitudinal mixed models. Frailty outcomes were frailty index, frailty status (frail defined as FI ≥ 0.25), change in frailty index, and change in frailty status, together with protein expression or change in protein expression. Elevated levels of 32 proteins were positively associated with the FI, cross-sectionally at all ages (range: β-coefficients 0.22-2.06; FDR 0.021-0.024), of which 18 were also associated with frailty status (range: odds ratios 1.40-5.77; FDR 0.022-0.016). Based on the accrued data, eight core proteins (CD4, FGF23, Gal-9, PAR-1, REN, TNFRSF10A TNFRSF11A, and TNFRSF10B) are proposed. A one-unit change in the FI was additively associated with increased protein expression over 5 and 10 years (range: β-coefficients 0.52-1.59; p < 0.001). Increments in baseline FI consistently associated with a change in protein expression over time (5 years, β-range 0.05-1.35; 10 years, β-range 0.51-1.48; all p < 0.001). A one-unit increase in protein expression was also associated with an increased probability of being frail (FI ≥ 0.25) (β-range: 0.14-0.61). Mirroring the multisystem deterioration that typifies frailty, the proteins and their associated biological pathways reflect pathologies, including the renal system, skeletal homeostasis, and TRAIL-activated apoptotic signaling. The core proteins are compelling candidates for understanding the development and progression of frailty with advancing age, including the intrinsic musculoskeletal component. © 2023 The Authors. Journal of Bone and Mineral Research published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of American Society for Bone and Mineral Research (ASBMR).

Bone mineral density loci specific to the skull portray potential pleiotropic effects on craniosynostosis

Skull bone mineral density (SK-BMD) provides a suitable trait for the discovery of key genes in bone biology, particularly to intramembranous ossification, not captured at other skeletal sites. We perform a genome-wide association meta-analysis (n ~ 43,800) of SK-BMD, identifying 59 loci, collectively explaining 12.5% of the trait variance. Association signals cluster within gene-sets involved in skeletal development and osteoporosis. Among the four novel loci (ZIC1, PRKAR1A, AZIN1/ATP6V1C1, GLRX3), there are factors implicated in intramembranous ossification and as we show, inherent to craniosynostosis processes. Functional follow-up in zebrafish confirms the importance of ZIC1 on cranial suture patterning. Likewise, we observe abnormal cranial bone initiation that culminates in ectopic sutures and reduced BMD in mosaic atp6v1c1 knockouts. Mosaic prkar1a knockouts present asymmetric bone growth and, conversely, elevated BMD. In light of this evidence linking SK-BMD loci to craniofacial abnormalities, our study provides new insight into the pathophysiology, diagnosis and treatment of skeletal diseases.

Gaps and alternative surgical and non-surgical approaches in the bone fragility management: an updated review

Osteoporotic fractures are one of the major problems facing healthcare systems worldwide. Undoubtedly, fragility fractures of the hip represent a far greater burden in terms of morbidity, mortality, and healthcare costs than other fracture sites. However, despite the significant impact on the health and quality of life of older adults, there is a general lack of awareness of osteoporosis, which results in suboptimal care. In fact, most high-risk individuals are never identified and do not receive adequate treatment, leading to further fragility fractures and worsening health status. Furthermore, considering the substantial treatment gap and the proven cost-effectiveness of fracture prevention programs such as Fracture Liaison Services, urgent action is needed to ensure that all individuals at high risk of fragility fracture are adequately assessed and treated. Based on this evidence, the aim of our review was to (i) provide an overview and comparison of the burden and management of fragility fractures, highlighting the main gaps, and (ii) highlight the importance of using alternative approaches, both surgical and non-surgical, with the aim of implementing early prevention of osteoporotic fractures and improving the management of osteoporotic patients at imminent and/or very high risk of fracture.

Bone Turnover Marker Profiling and Fracture Risk in Older Women: Fracture Risk from Age 75 to 90

PURPOSE

A major challenge in osteoporosis is to identify individuals at high fracture risk. We investigated six bone turnover markers (BTMs) to determine association with specific fracture types; the time-frame for risk prediction and whether these are influenced by age at assessment.

METHODS

Population-based OPRA cohort (n = 1044) was assessed at ages 75, 80, 85 and fractures documented for up to 15 years. Six BTMs were analyzed at each time-point (N-terminal propeptide of type I collagen, PINP; total osteocalcin, OC; bone-specific alkaline phosphatase, BALP; C-terminal telopeptide of type I collagen, CTX; tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase 5b, TRAcP5b; urinary osteocalcin). Hazard ratios (HR) for any, major osteoporotic, vertebral and hip fractures were calculated as short (1, 2, 3 years) and long-term risk (5, 10, 15 years).

RESULTS

At 75 year, high CTX levels were associated with an increased risk of all fractures, including major osteoporotic fractures, across most time-frames (HRs ranging: 1.28 to 2.28). PINP was not consistently associated. Urinary osteocalcin was consistently associated with elevated short-term risk (HRs ranging: 1.83-2.72). Other BTMs were directionally in accordance, though not all statistically significant. BTMs were not predictive for hip fractures. Association of all BTMs attenuated over time; at 80 year none were associated with an increased fracture risk.

CONCLUSION

CTX, urinary OC and TRAcP5b are predictive for fracture in a 1 to 3 year, perspective, whereas in the long-term or above age 80 years, BTMs appear less valuable. Resorption markers, particularly CTX, were more consistently associated with fracture risk than formation markers in the very elderly.

Impaired selective renal filtration captured by eGFRcysC/eGFRcrea ratio is associated with mortality in a population based cohort of older women

Deranged renal filtration of mid-sized (5-30 kDa) compared to smaller molecules (< 0.9 kDa) results in increased plasma levels of cystatin C (cysC) compared to creatinine resulting in a low eGFRcysC/eGFRcrea ratio. A ratio below 0.6 or 0.7, is termed shrunken pore syndrome (SPS), which in patient based studies is associated with mortality. Reference values for eGFRcysC/eGFRcrea ratio, the prevalence of SPS and the consequence of low eGFRcysC/eGFRcrea ratio in the general, elderly population are unknown. 75-yr old women (n = 849) from the population-based OPRA cohort, followed for 10-years had eGFR calculated with CKD-EPI study equation, and eGFRcysC/eGFRcrea ratio calculated. Mortality risk (HR [95% CI]) was estimated. Women with sarcopenia or on glucocorticoids were excluded. Almost 1 in 10 women (9%) had eGFRcysC/eGFRcrea ratio < 0.6 at age 75 and this did not increase appreciably with age. Women with ratio < 0.6 had higher 10-yr mortality risk compared with ratios > 0.9 (HRadj 1.6 [95% CI 1.1-2.5]). In elderly women eGFRcysC/eGFRcrea ratio < 0.6 is common and associated with increased mortality. Our results confirm patient-based findings, suggesting that identifying individuals with SPS may be clinically relevant to assessing mortality risk in the elderly.

Bone mineral density in haemophilia - a multicentre study evaluating the impact of different replacement regimens

AIM

The aim of this study was to investigate if prophylactic treatment in severe haemophilia impact on bone mineral densisty (BMD) in adults with haemophilia A/B.

METHODS

Subjects with haemophilia (n = 120) underwent bone-density measurement and clinical data was collected. BMD in subjects with severe haemophilia on high-dose prophylaxis (n = 41) was compared to BMD in subjects with mild haemophilia (n = 33) and to severe haemophilia treated with intermediate-dose prophylaxis (n = 32) or on-demand replacement therapy (n = 14).

RESULTS

Subjects with severe haemophilia on high-dose prophylaxis showed BMD at total hip comparable to subjects with mild haemophilia (median BMD 955.8 and 977.4 mg/cm² (P = .17), respectively). No difference in BMD was found related to type of prophylactic regimen (median BMD 955.8 and 942.4 mg/cm² , in high-dose and intermediate dose groups, respectively; P = .70). Subjects with severe disease treated on-demand had significantly lower BMD compared to subjects on a high-dose prophylactic regimen (median BMD 771.8 and 955.8 mg/cm² (P = .001), respectively). BMD decreased significantly with age, regardless of severity of haemophilia disease. In a multivariate analysis, adjusted for disease status and age, type of prophylactic regimen was not significantly associated with osteoporosis development.

CONCLUSION

We show that BMD differs in persons with severe haemophilia on propylaxis as compared to those treated on-demand, but that type of prophylactic regimen does not reflect on BMD. The difference between treatment groups was mainly explained by an age difference between groups. However, patients on prophylaxis displayed a high degree of normal BMD not far from mild haemophilia at comparative age.

In community-dwelling women frailty is associated with imminent risk of osteoporotic fractures

Frailty reflects an accelerated health decline. Frailty is a consequence of fracture and contributes to fracture. Greater frailty was associated with higher fracture risk. Frail women were at immediate risk (within 24 months) of a hip or major fracture. Fracture prevention could be improved by considering frailty status.

INTRODUCTION

Frailty encompasses the functional decline in multiple systems, particularly the musculoskeletal system. Frailty can be a consequence of and contribute to fracture, leading to a cycle of further fractures and greater frailty. This study investigates this association, specifically time frames for risk, associated fracture types, and how grade of frailty affects risk.

METHODS

The study is performed in the OPRA cohort of 1044, 75-year-old women. A frailty index was created at baseline and 5 and 10 years. Women were categorized as frail or nonfrail and in quartiles (Q1 least frail; Q4 most frail). Fracture risk was assessed over short (1 and 2 years) and long terms (5 and 10 years). Fracture risk was defined for any fracture, major osteoporotic fractures (MOFs), and hip and vertebral fracture, using models including bone mineral density (BMD) and death as a competing risk.

RESULTS

For women aged 75, frailty was associated with higher risk of fracture within 2 years (Hip SHR_adj. 3.16 (1.34-7.47)) and MOF (2 years SHR_adj. 1.88 (1.12-3.16)). The increased risk continued for up to 5 years (Hip SHR_adj. 2.02 (1.07-3.82)); (MOF SHR_adj. 1.43 (0.99-2.05)). Grade of frailty was associated with increased 10-year probability of fracture (p = 0.03). Frailty predicted fracture independently of BMD. For women aged 80, frailty was similarly associated with fracture.

CONCLUSION

Frail elderly women are at immediate risk of fracture, regardless of bone density and continue to be at risk over subsequent years compared to identically aged nonfrail women. Incorporating regular frailty assessment into fracture management could improve identification of women at high fracture risk.

Knee pain in young adult women- associations with muscle strength, body composition and physical activity

BACKGROUND

Knee pain is studied mostly in older age groups, although in young adults it may be an indicator of future impaired musculoskeletal health. Therefore, the aim of this study was to examine the longitudinal association between knee pain and thigh muscle strength in young adult women and to explore the associations between muscle strength, body composition, physical activity and knee pain.

METHODS

The PEAK-25 cohort consists of women aged 25 at baseline (N=1064). At the 10-year follow-up n=728 attended for DXA-measured body composition and muscle strength assessment and n=797 answered the questionnaire on health and lifestyle. Independent samples t-test was used to compare women with and without knee pain, Spearman correlation was used to test the longitudinal association between strength and knee pain.

RESULTS

Knee pain was reported by one third of the women at follow-up (n=260, 33%), although physical activity levels were similar in those with and without pain (high level 50 vs 45 % (p= 0.18). Body composition differed, however. Women with knee pain had higher BMI (25.6 vs 24.1), fat mass index (9.2 vs 8.2) and % total body fat mass (34.7 vs 33.2). Simultaneously, they had lower % lean mass (total body 61.5 vs 62.8; legs 20.6 vs 21.0) and lower thigh muscle strength (extensors 184.9 vs 196.8, flexors 96.6 vs 100.9, p<0.05), but slightly higher hamstrings-to -quadriceps ratio (0.53 vs 0.51, p=0.04). Muscle strength at baseline weakly correlated with knee pain at follow-up (extensor r_s= -0.04; flexor -0.02, p>0.2). Overweight women had higher absolute thigh muscle strength, but lower weight-adjusted strength than normal weight women (p<0.001). Leg lean mass explained 26-34% of the variation in muscle strength and adjustment for physical activity level had little effect.

CONCLUSION

Knee pain is already common among women in their mid-thirties. Lower thigh muscle strength in the mid-twenties was not associated with future knee pain, however women with knee pain tended to have lower thigh muscle strength and a body composition of higher body fat combined with lower lean mass. Maintaining a healthy body composition and adequate thigh muscle strength may be beneficial for knee joint health.

Health systems strengthening to arrest the global disability burden: empirical development of prioritised components for a global strategy for improving musculoskeletal health

INTRODUCTION

Despite the profound burden of disease, a strategic global response to optimise musculoskeletal (MSK) health and guide national-level health systems strengthening priorities remains absent. Auspiced by the Global Alliance for Musculoskeletal Health (G-MUSC), we aimed to empirically derive requisite priorities and components of a strategic response to guide global and national-level action on MSK health.

METHODS

Design: mixed-methods, three-phase design.Phase 1: qualitative study with international key informants (KIs), including patient representatives and people with lived experience. KIs characterised the contemporary landscape for MSK health and priorities for a global strategic response.Phase 2: scoping review of national health policies to identify contemporary MSK policy trends and foci.Phase 3: informed by phases 1-2, was a global eDelphi where multisectoral panellists rated and iterated a framework of priorities and detailed components/actions.

RESULTS

Phase 1: 31 KIs representing 25 organisations were sampled from 20 countries (40% low and middle income (LMIC)). Inductively derived themes were used to construct a logic model to underpin latter phases, consisting of five guiding principles, eight strategic priority areas and seven accelerators for action.Phase 2: of the 165 documents identified, 41 (24.8%) from 22 countries (88% high-income countries) and 2 regions met the inclusion criteria. Eight overarching policy themes, supported by 47 subthemes, were derived, aligning closely with the logic model.Phase 3: 674 panellists from 72 countries (46% LMICs) participated in round 1 and 439 (65%) in round 2 of the eDelphi. Fifty-nine components were retained with 10 (17%) identified as essential for health systems. 97.6% and 94.8% agreed or strongly agreed the framework was valuable and credible, respectively, for health systems strengthening.

CONCLUSION

An empirically derived framework, co-designed and strongly supported by multisectoral stakeholders, can now be used as a blueprint for global and country-level responses to improve MSK health and prioritise system strengthening initiatives.

Changes in bone mass associated with obesity and weight loss in humans: Applicability of animal models

The implications of obesity and weight loss for human bone health are not well understood. Although the bone changes associated with weight loss are similar in humans and rodents, that is not the case for obesity. In humans, obesity is generally associated with increased bone mass, an outcome which is exacerbated by advanced age and menopause. In rodents, by contrast, bone mass decreases in proportion to severity and duration of obesity, and is influenced by sex, age and mechanical load. Despite these discrepancies, rodents are frequently used to model the situation in humans. In this review, we summarise the existing knowledge of the effects of obesity and weight loss on bone mass in humans and rodents, focusing on the translatability of findings from animal models. We then describe how animal models should be used to broaden the understanding of the relationship between obesity, weight loss, and skeletal health in humans. Specifically, we highlight the aspects of study design that should be considered to optimise translatability of the rodent models of obesity and weight loss. Notably, the sex, age, and nutritional status of the animals should ideally match those of interest in humans. With these caveats in mind, and depending on the research question asked, our review underscores that animal models can provide valuable information for obesity and weight-management research.

Vertebral fracture: epidemiology, impact and use of DXA vertebral fracture assessment in fracture liaison services

Vertebral fractures are independent risk factors for vertebral and nonvertebral fractures. Since vertebral fractures are often missed, the relatively new introduction of vertebral fracture assessment (VFA) for imaging of the lateral spine during DXA-measurement of the spine and hips may contribute to detect vertebral fractures. We advocate performing a VFA in all patients with a recent fracture visiting a fracture liaison service (FLS). Fracture liaison services (FLS) are important service models for delivering secondary fracture prevention for older adults presenting with a fragility fracture. While commonly age, clinical risk factors (including fracture site and number of prior fracture) and BMD play a crucial role in determining fracture risk and indications for treatment with antiosteoporosis medications, prevalent vertebral fractures usually remain undetected. However, vertebral fractures are important independent risk factors for future vertebral and nonvertebral fractures. A development of the DXA technology, vertebral fracture assessment (VFA), allows for assessment of the lateral spine during the regular DXA bone mineral density measurement of the lumbar spine and hips. Recent approaches to the stratification of antiosteoporosis medication type according to baseline fracture risk, and differences by age in the indication for treatment by prior fracture mean that additional information from VFA may influence initiation and type of treatment. Furthermore, knowledge of baseline vertebral fractures allows reliable definition of incident vertebral fracture events during treatment, which may modify the approach to therapy. In this manuscript, we will discuss the epidemiology and clinical significance of vertebral fractures, the different methods of detecting vertebral fractures, and the rationale for, and implications of, use of VFA routinely in FLS. • Vertebral fracture assessment is a tool available on modern DXA instruments and has proven ability to detect vertebral fractures, the majority of which occur without a fall and without the signs and symptoms of an acute fracture. • Most osteoporosis guidelines internationally suggest that treatment with antiosteoporosis medications should be considered for older individuals (e.g., 65 years +) with a recent low trauma fracture without the need for DXA. • Younger individuals postfracture may be risk-assessed on the basis of FRAX® probability including DXA and associated treatment thresholds. • Future fracture risk is markedly influenced by both site, number, severity, and recency of prior fracture; awareness of baseline vertebral fractures facilitates definition of true incident vertebral fracture events occurring during antiosteoporosis treatment. • Detection of previously clinically silent vertebral fractures, defining site of prior fracture, might alter treatment decisions in younger or older FLS patients, consistent with recent IOF-ESCEO guidance on baseline-risk-stratified therapy, and provides a reliable baseline from which to define new, potentially therapy-altering, vertebral fracture events.

Musculoskeletal health - The case for action

Musculoskeletal health is critical for human function, enabling mobility, dexterity and the ability to work and actively participate in all aspects of life. It is essential for maintaining economic, social and functional independence as well as human capital across the life course. Action is needed and the Global Alliance for Musculoskeletal Health (G-MUSC) is working with the entire musculoskeletal community to develop a global consensus on the important components of a global strategy. This will serve to influence and accelerate the priorities and actions of countries and international agencies such as the WHO. This issue aims to provide a background for developing such a global strategy for improving musculoskeletal health.

Frailty and prediction of recurrent falls over 10 years in a community cohort of 75-year-old women

Background

Frailty captures the age-related declines in health leading to increased vulnerability, including falls which are commonplace in older women. The relationship between frailty and falls is complex, with one leading to the other in a vicious cycle.

Aims

This study addresses the gap in understanding how patterns of frailty and falls propensity interact, particularly in those who have not yet entered the falls-frailty cycle.

Methods

The Osteoporosis Risk Assessment cohort consists of 1044 community-dwelling women aged 75, with 10 years of follow-up. Investigations were performed and a frailty index constructed at baseline, 5 and 10 years. Falls were self-reported for each previous 12 months. Analysis was two-directional, firstly based on frailty status and second, based on falls status. Recurrent falls was the primary outcome.

Results

Baseline frailty was a significant predictor of recurrent falls after 5 and 10 years [(OR 2.55 (1.62–3.99); 3.04 (1.63–5.67)]. Among women who had no history of falls at age 75, frailty was a stronger predictor of falls at 5 years [OR 3.06 (1.59–5.89)] than among women who had previously fallen.

Discussion

Frailty is significantly associated with recurrent falls and most pronounced in those who are frail but have not yet fallen.

Conclusions

This suggests that frailty should be an integral part of falls-risk assessment to improve identification of those at risk of becoming fallers.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (10.1007/s40520-019-01467-1) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Epigenome-wide cross-tissue correlation of human bone and blood DNA methylation - can blood be used as a surrogate for bone?

Difficulty in obtaining bone tissue is an obstacle to studying epigenetics to understand gene–environment interactions, and their role in disease pathogenesis. Blood is an obvious alternative and in this proof of principle study, our aim was to systematically investigate whether blood is a viable surrogate for bone. We measured epigenome-wide DNA methylation at 850 K CpG sites in matched trabecular bone and peripheral blood collected from the same patients at the same time-point (n = 12 women; 66–85y), to investigate the between-tissue correspondence. What constituted a CpG site with corresponding methylation in both tissues was stringently defined. Only sites highly correlated (r² > 0.74; FDR q-value <0.05) and at least 80% similarity in methylation level (Δβ <0.2) between paired samples were retained. In total, 28,549 CpG sites were similarly methylated in bone and blood. Between 33% and 49% of loci associated with bone phenotypes through GWAS were represented among these sites, and major pathways relevant to bone regulation were enriched. The results from this study indicate that blood can mirror the bone methylome and capture sites related to bone regulation. This study shows that in principal, peripheral blood is a feasible surrogate for bone tissue in DNA methylation investigations. As the first step, this will provide a platform for future studies in bone epigenetics, and possibly for larger-scale epidemiological studies.

Longitudinal Changes in Kidney Function Estimated from Cystatin C and Its Association with Mortality in Elderly Women

BACKGROUND/AIMS

Prospective data on age-related changes in kidney function are required, especially since the current Kidney Disease Improving Global Outcomes (KDIGO) definition has been suggested to classify a large number of elderly people with CKD.

OBJECTIVE

This study, a complement to our previous Cr-based study in the same cohort, is aimed at evaluating cystatin C (cysC)-based changes in kidney function during aging in older women and analyzing the association between CKD and mortality through 10 years of follow-up.

METHODS

cysC was available in 981 women from the Osteoporosis Prospective Risk Assessment (OPRA) cohort, all aged 75 years on entry. Reinvestigations were made after 5 (n = 685) and 10 years (n = 365). Kidney function was estimated (estimated glomerular filtration rate [eGFR]) using Chronic Kidney Disease Epidemiology Collaboration cysC and Caucasian, Asian, Pediatric, and Adult cysC equations and the change in function calculated. Women were staged equivalent to CKD stage 1, 2, 3a, or 3b-5 according to the KDIGO classification. Mortality risk was estimated for 5-year or 10-year follow-up time using Cox proportional hazard analyses (reference category, CKD stages 1 and 2).

RESULTS

Mortality risk for women with the worst kidney function (CKD stages 3b-5) increased during both 5-year follow-up times compared to that for women in stages 1 and 2 (age 75-80 years: adjusted Hazard Ratio [HRadj] 3.9, 95% confidence interval [CI] 2.3-6.5; age 80-85 years: HRadj 1.7, 95% CI 1.0-2.7). In contrast, women in stage 3a had increased risk only in the first 5-year follow-up (HRadj 1.7, 95% CI 1.0-3.0, age 75-80 years). Change in kidney function amounted to a loss of 1.9 (±1.4) mL/min/1.73 m2 per year during the 10-year follow-up, and at age 85 years, 4 of every 5 women had an eGFR equivalent to CKD.

CONCLUSION

In the future, an age-adapted definition of CKD, lowering the threshold for CKD in the elderly, may be beneficial to avoid overdiagnosis of CKD.

Inner histopathologic changes and disproportionate zone volumes in foetal growth plates following gestational hypoglycaemia in rats

Maternal hypoglycaemia throughout gestation until gestation day (GD)20 delays foetal growth and skeletal development. While partially prevented by return to normoglycaemia after completed organogenesis (GD17), underlying mechanisms are not fully understood. Here, we investigated the pathogenesis of these changes and significance of maternal hypoglycaemia extending beyond organogenesis in non-diabetic rats. Pregnant rats received insulin-infusion until GD20 or GD17, with sacrifice on GD20. Hypoglycaemia throughout gestation increased maternal corticosterone levels, which correlated with foetal levels. Growth plates displayed central histopathologic changes comprising disrupted cellular organisation, hypertrophic chondrocytes, and decreased cellular density; expression of pro-angiogenic factors, HIF-1α and VEGF-A increased in surrounding areas. Disproportionately decreased growth plate zone volumes and lower expression of the structural protein MATN-3 were seen, while bone ossification parameters were normal. Ending maternal/foetal hypoglycaemia on GD17 reduced incidence and severity of histopathologic changes and with normal growth plate volume. Compromised foetal skeletal development following maternal hypoglycaemia throughout gestation is hypothesised to result from corticosterone-induced hypoxia in growth plates, where hypoxia disrupts chondrocyte maturation and growth plate structure and volume, decreasing long bone growth. Maternal/foetal hypoglycaemia lasting only until GD17 attenuated these changes, suggesting a pivotal role of glucose in growth plate development.

Kidney function and its association to imminent, short- and long-term fracture risk-a longitudinal study in older women

Reduced kidney function is associated with an increased fracture risk, although the relationship between an age-related decline and fractures needs further investigation. We followed kidney function and fracture risk for 10 years. A mild-moderate decline in kidney function was associated with fracture, but not in advanced age.

INTRODUCTION

With age, kidney function declines. Though well known that chronic kidney disease is associated with increased fracture risk, the extent to which the typical age-related decline contributes is unclear. In the OPRA cohort, a longitudinal study of older non-selected women, we investigated the association between kidney function and fracture.

METHODS

Cystatin C-based kidney function estimates were available at age 75 (n = 981) and 80 (n = 685). Women were categorized by kidney function: normal (CKD stages 1 and 2), mild-moderate (3a), poor (3b-5), and imminent, short- and long-term fracture risk investigated. BMD measurements and kidney function for risk prediction were also evaluated; women were categorized by both reduced kidney function (stages 3-5) and osteoporosis status.

RESULTS

In the short term, 2-3 years, mild-moderate kidney dysfunction was associated with the highest risk increase: osteoporotic fractures (2 years HRadj 2.21, 95% CI 1.27-3.87) and also up to 5 years (between 75 and 80 years) (HRadj 1.51, 1.04-2.18). Hip fracture risk was similarly increased. This association was not observed from age 80 nor for women with poorest kidney function. Reduced kidney function was associated with higher risk even without osteoporosis (osteoporotic fracture; HRadj 1.66, 1.08-2.54); risk increased by having both osteoporosis and reduced function (HRadj 2.53, 1.52-4.23).

CONCLUSION

Older women with mild-moderate reduction of kidney function are at increased risk of fractures, but not those with the worst function. Our findings furthermore confirm the value of osteoporosis assessment and it is possible that in this age group, age-related decline of kidney function has limited contribution compared with BMD.

Association Between Vitamin D, Frailty, and Progression of Frailty in Community-Dwelling Older Women

CONTEXT

Vitamin D (25OHD) is involved in many physiological functions that decline with age, contributing to frailty and increased risk for negative health outcomes. Whether 25OHD is a long-term risk marker for frailty over a longer time and whether it is consistent with advancing age is unclear.

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the association between 25OHD and frailty in older women followed for 10 years.

DESIGN AND SETTING

Prospective, population-based, cohort study in Malmö, Sweden.

PARTICIPANTS

Community-dwelling women, age 75 years (N = 1044) with reassessments at ages 80 (n = 715) and 85 (n = 382) years.

METHODS

Frailty was quantified using a 10-variable frailty index. Women were categorized as 25OHD insufficient (<50 nmol/L) or sufficient (≥50 nmol/L).

RESULTS

At ages 75 and 80 years, women with insufficient 25OHD were frailer than women with sufficient 25OHD (0.23 vs 0.18, P < 0.001; and 0.32 vs 0.25, P = 0.001, respectively). At age 80 years, 25OHD insufficiency was associated with subsequent frailty 5 years later (0.41 vs 0.32; P = 0.011). Accelerated progression of frailty was not associated with lower 25OHD levels, and 25OHD level >75 nmol/L was not additionally beneficial with regard to frailty. No association between 25OHD and frailty was observed at age 85 years. Within the frailty index, variables associated with 25OHD were related to muscle strength and function.

CONCLUSION

In this study, 25OHD insufficiency was associated with increased frailty in all but the oldest old. This study supports the value of maintaining sufficient 25OHD levels for healthy aging.

Correction to: Progression of frailty and prevalence of osteoporosis in a community cohort of older women-a 10-year longitudinal study

The Open Access license, which previously read.

Analysis of RAMP3 gene polymorphism with body composition and bone density in young and elderly women

Background and aim

The Receptor Activity Modifying Proteins (RAMPs) are a group of accessory proteins, of which there are three in humans, that interact with a number of G-protein coupled receptors (GPCR) and play various roles in regulation of endocrine signaling. Studies in RAMP3 knockout (KO) mice reveal an age related phenotype with altered metabolic regulation and high bone mass. To translate these findings into a clinically relevant perspective, we investigated the association between RAMP3 gene variants, body composition and bone phenotypes in two population-based cohorts of Swedish women.

Methods

Five single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNP) in the vicinity of the RAMP3 gene were genotyped in the PEAK-25 cohort (n = 1061; 25 years) and OPRA (n = 1044; 75 years). Bone mineral density (BMD), fat mass and lean mass (total body; regional) were measured by DXA at baseline, 5 and 10 year follow-up.

Results

BMD did not differ with RAMP3 genotype in either cohort, although fracture risk was increased in the elderly women (OR 2.695 [95% CI 1.514–4.801]). Fat mass tended to be higher with RAMP3 SNPs; although only in elderly women. In the young women, changes in BMI and fat mass between ages 25–35 differed by genotype (p = 0.001; p < 0.001).

Conclusion

Variation in RAMP3 may contribute to age-related changes in body composition and risk of fracture.

Osteoporosis knowledge and awareness among university students in Saudi Arabia

Awareness and knowledge about any disease is the first step to prevent and treat it, so this study evaluates osteoporosis awareness and knowledge in university students. Our results showed a high awareness and good knowledge of osteoporosis. Females were better informed than males. Knowledge increased with increasing education level.

PURPOSE

Osteoporosis is a worldwide health problem, including Saudi Arabia where vitamin D deficiency is common. Prevention of osteoporosis must begin by increasing awareness of the disease from a young age. This study aimed to assess awareness and knowledge of osteoporosis among young adults (18-30 years) attending Saudi universities, exploring the relationship between education and gender and the sources of information in this age group.

METHODS

A cross-sectional survey was conducted in 337 students (176 females; 161 males) randomly selected from four Saudi universities during January-December 2017. Education level ranged from preparatory year to undergraduate and postgraduate levels. A self-reported questionnaire was designed to assess awareness and knowledge of osteoporosis across several domains, including risk factors for the disease, prevalence, symptoms, prevention, and treatment.

RESULTS

Overall, 92% of students had some awareness of osteoporosis through a variety of sources, predominantly via friends. Just over half of all students had a good or high knowledge level overall (53.4 ± 16.6%). Knowledge score correlated with education (r² = 0.28) and gender (r² = 0.27); p < 0.0001. Females were better informed than males (57.7 ± 15.4% vs 48.8 ± 16.8%; p < 0.0001). Knowledge increased with increasing education level (preparatory year (47.8 ± 15.3%), undergraduate (53.5 ± 16.5%), and postgraduate (61.8 ± 15.8%); all p < 0.0001).

CONCLUSION

Knowledge of osteoporosis was good among university students in Saudi Arabia, higher in females and with increasing years of education. Overall, students were more knowledgeable about risk factors compared to other aspects such as symptoms, prevention, or treatment of osteoporosis.

Progression of frailty and prevalence of osteoporosis in a community cohort of older women-a 10-year longitudinal study

In community dwelling, 75-year-old women followed 10 years, a frailty index was created at each of three visits. Frailty score increased by ~ 6-7% annually. A higher frailty score was equivalent to being 5-10 years chronologically older. Frailty was associated with low bone density and higher risk of dying.

INTRODUCTION

To understand the distribution of frailty among a population-based sample of older community-dwelling women, progression over 10 years, and association with mortality and osteoporosis.

METHODS

The study is performed in a cohort designed to investigate osteoporosis. The OPRA cohort consists of 75-year-old women, n = 1044 at baseline, and follow-up at age 80 and 85. A frailty index (scored from 0.0-1.0) based on deficits in health across multiple domains was created at all time-points; outcomes were mortality up to 15 years and femoral neck bone density.

RESULTS

At baseline, the proportion least frail, i.e., most robust (FI 0.0-0.1) constituted 48%, dropping to 25 and 14% at age 80 and 85. On average, over 10 years, the annual linear frailty score progression was approximately 6-7%. Among the least frail, 11% remained robust over 10 years. A higher frailty score was equivalent to being 5 to 10 years older. Mortality was substantially higher in the highest quartile compared to the lowest based on baseline frailty score; after 10 years, 48.7% had died vs 17.2% (p = 1.7 × 10^-14). Mortality risk over the first 5 years was highest in the frailest (Q4 vs Q1; HR_unadj 3.26 [1.86-5.73]; p < 0.001) and continued to be elevated at 10 years (HR_unadj 3.58 [2.55-5.03]; p < 0.001). Frailty was associated with BMD after adjusting for BMI (overall p = 0.006; Q1 vs Q4 p = 0.003).

CONCLUSIONS

The frailty index was highly predictive of mortality showing a threefold increased risk of death in the frailest both in a shorter and longer perspective. Only one in ten older women escaped progression after 10 years. Frailty and osteoporosis were associated.

Correction to: Consensus on best practice standards for Fracture Liaison Service in the Asia-Pacific region

In this article the name of the sixth author, E. Michael Lewiecki was rendered incorrectly. The publisher regrets this error and apologizes for the inconvenience caused.

Reduced kidney function is associated with BMD, bone loss and markers of mineral homeostasis in older women: a 10-year longitudinal study

Kidney function decreases with age; however, the long-term influence on bone density (BMD) in older women already at risk of osteoporosis is unknown. We followed kidney function and bone loss for 10 years. Declining kidney function was adversely associated with bone loss and mineral homeostasis in old women, though it attenuated with advanced aging.

INTRODUCTION

Existing studies do not fully address the relationship between kidney function and bone metabolism with advanced aging in Caucasian women. This study describes the association between kidney function, BMD, bone loss and bone metabolism in older women and provides a review of the available literature for context.

METHODS

We studied participants from the OPRA cohort with follow-up after 5 and 10 years. Using plasma cystatin C (cysC), estimated glomerular function rate (eGFR) was evaluated at age 75 (n = 981), 80 (n = 685) and 85 (n = 365). Women were stratified into "normal" function (CKD stages 1-2), "intermediate" (stage 3a) and "poor" (stages 3b-5), and outcome measures-BMD, bone loss and markers of mineral homeostasis-were compared.

RESULTS

Femoral neck (FN) BMD positively associated with kidney function at 75 years old ([Formula: see text] = 0.001, p = 0.028) and 80 years old ([Formula: see text] = 0.001, p = 0.001), although with small effect size. Prevalence of osteoporosis (FN T-score ≤ - 2.5) did not differ with kidney function. Measured at age 75, women with poor kidney function had higher annual percentage bone loss over 5 years compared to those with normal function (2.3%, 95% CI 1.8-2.8 versus 1.3%, 95% CI 1.1-1.5, p = 0.007), although not when measured from age 80 or 85. Additionally, markers of mineral homeostasis (PTH, phosphate, vitamin D, calcium), CRP and osteocalcin differed by kidney function.

CONCLUSIONS

In old women, kidney function is associated with BMD, bone loss and altered mineral homeostasis; probably, a relationship attenuated in the very elderly.

Peak Bone Mass and Quantitative Ultrasound Bone Properties in Young Adulthood: A Study in the PEAK-25 Cohort of Women

Peak bone mass is normally reached in the third decade of life. Previously, in the population-based PEAK-25 cohort (n = 1061, age 25.5 ± 0.2), we demonstrated that bone mineral density in the population-based PEAK-25 cohort is comparatively high; therefore, this study aimed to determine if the calcaneus microarchitecture mirrored this. In the process, we describe normative quantitative ultrasound (QUS) values for 25-yr-old women and the relationship between QUS values and extremes of body weight. QUS variables speed of sound (SOS), broadband ultrasound attenuation (BUA), and stiffness index were measured. Young adult values were based on the manufacturer-supplied QUS reference values. Analyses were performed in the cohort as a whole, and additionally, to understand the relationship between body weight and QUS values in young women, the variables were categorized into octiles for weight or body mass index (BMI) and the lowest and highest octiles were compared. In the cohort, SOS values, reflecting bone density, were higher (108 ± 18%), whereas BUA values, reflecting bone complexity, were lower (90 ± 14%) compared to the young adult reference population. SOS did not correlate with body weight or BMI. In the cohort, overall correlations between BUA weight, and BMI were small and positive (Pearson's r coefficients 0.261 and 0.197, respectively; p < 0.001), although in the low-weight group, r coefficients were higher (r = 0.313 and 0.268; p < 0.05). In contrast, in the high-weight group, correlation with BUA values tended to be small, negative, and nonsignificant. Correlation between QUS and dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry-measured bone mineral density was low to moderate and significant at all skeletal sites (r = 0.37-0.52). Whereas coefficients tended to be higher in the low-weight group, the reverse was apparent for the low-BMI group. In these 25-yr-old women, a comparatively high dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry-measured bone mass is offset by less complex bone structures assessed by QUS. This may have implications for later osteoporosis assessment and future fracture risk.