Fractures significantly reduce quality of life in women with osteoporosis, study finds

Women who have previously had fractures experience a significant reduction in health-related quality of life, according to a study published online in the Mayo Clinic Proceedings.

The study, from the Global Longitudinal Study of Osteoporosis in Women (GLOW) based at the Center for Outcomes Research at the University of Massachusetts Medical School, found that the quality of life for women with previous fractures is similar to or worse than that experienced by patients with diabetes, arthritis, lung disease and other chronic illnesses.

“Our study shows that the effects of fractures result in significant reductions in quality of life that are as lasting and as disabling as other chronic conditions,” stated Jonathan D. Atachi, MD, a GLOW investigator and the study’s lead author, in a press release. “As important: the greater the number of fractures; the greater the disability.”

Large sample of patients

More than 60,000 postmenopausal women — recruited by more than 700 primary care physicians in 10 countries — 55 years of age and older were involved in the study.

Researchers surveyed the women using a standardized index measuring five dimensions of health (mobility, self-care, usual activities, pain or discomfort, and anxiety or depression). The surveys were used to compare the overall health status, physical function and vitality of participants. Furthermore, they were used to assess health-related quality of life.

The danger of fractures

According to the research, fractures in the spine, hip or upper leg result in the greatest decrease in quality of life. The study pointed out that these fractures often carry with them chronic pain, reduced mobility, loss of independence and — especially in the case of hip fracture — an increased risk of death.

“This suggests that efforts are needed to prevent fractures from occurring,” Atachi stated in the release.

GLOW is a prospective, international cohort study of women 55 years of age and older who visited their primary care physician during the 2 years prior to enrollment. Patient information regarding fracture risk factors, treatments, patient behaviors and fracture outcomes are still being collected.

Reference:
Atachi JD, Adami S, Gehlbach S, et al. Impact of prevalent fractures on quality of life: Baseline results from the global longitudinal study of osteoporosis in women. Mayo Clin Proc. Published online July 15, 2010. doi: 10.4065/?mcp.2010.0082

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