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Importance of Recent Fracture as Predictor of Imminent Fracture Risk

  • Epidemiology and Pathophysiology (F Cosman and D Shoback, Section Editors)
  • Published:
Current Osteoporosis Reports Aims and scope Submit manuscript

Abstract

Purpose of Review

To examine the importance of recent fracture as a predictor of imminent fracture risk, review the importance of prior fracture type and timing, and identify risk factors for recurrent osteoporotic fracture.

Recent Findings

Prior fracture type and timing impact risk of subsequent fracture that is largely independent of bone mineral density. Site of re-fracture is similar to original major osteoporotic fracture. Incidence of recurrent major osteoporotic fracture is greatest within the first year. Other risk factors include those that pertain to individual characteristics. Approved osteoporosis therapies reduce risk of recurrent fracture.

Summary

Prior fracture timing, type, and individual characteristics are important components of predicting the risk of future fracture. Initiation of osteoporosis medication therapy should be started after initial fracture to reduce the risk of future fracture, though these medications typically take 6–12 months to have an effect, during which time is the highest rate of imminent re-fracture.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Division of Clinical Immunology and Rheumatology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, 510 20th Street South, Faculty Office Tower 820D, Birmingham, AL, 35294, USA

    Amanda D. Schnell, Jeffrey R. Curtis & Kenneth G. Saag

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  1. Amanda D. Schnell
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  2. Jeffrey R. Curtis
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Correspondence to Kenneth G. Saag.

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Conflict of Interest

Jeffrey Curtis reports grants and personal fees from Amgen and Radius, outside the submitted work. Kenneth Saag reports grants and personal fees and grants from Amgen and Merck and personal fees from Lilly and Radius, outside the submitted work. Amanda Schnell declares no conflict of interest.

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Schnell, A.D., Curtis, J.R. & Saag, K.G. Importance of Recent Fracture as Predictor of Imminent Fracture Risk. Curr Osteoporos Rep 16, 738–745 (2018). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11914-018-0487-z

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