Bone Mineral Density Measurement and Treatment for Osteoporosis in Older Individuals With Fractures

Abstract
THE HUMAN and economic toll of osteoporotic fractures is staggering. One in 2 white women will suffer an osteoporotic fracture in her lifetime.1 The mortality rate from osteoporotic fractures in women is greater than the combined mortality rates from breast and ovarian cancers.2 In 1995, osteoporotic fractures led to 432 000 hospitalizations, 2.5 million physician visits, and 180 000 nursing home admissions, with direct expenditures estimated to be $13.8 billion.3 Osteoporotic fractures result in significant chronic pain and disability. About 20% of hip fracture patients die, and one third receive nursing home care in the first year after fracture.4 The death and disability rate is similar in men after hip fracture.5