May 09, 2013
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Distal forearm fractures at young age increases risk for fragility fractures in men

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Boys with distal forearm fractures had an increased risk for fragility fractures as older adults compared to girls, according to results of this study.

“It is necessary to determine whether the increased fractures observed in men is due to persistent deficits of bone strength, continued high fracture risk activity or both,” Shreyasee Amin MD, CM, MPH, and colleagues wrote in the abstract. “Until then, men should be asked about a childhood distal forearm fracture and, if so, warrant further screening and counseling on measures to optimize bone health and prevent fractures.”

Researchers studied a population-based cohort of 1,776 children who were 18 years or younger, had a distal forearm fracture between 1935 and 1992 and were living in Olmsted County, Minn. Through a review of complete medical records using the linkage system of the Rochester Epidemiology Project, researchers identified incident fractures that occurred in this group at 35 years or older.

Fragility fractures were compared with expected numbers estimated from fracture site-specific incidence rates based on age, gender and calendar year. The researchers observed subsequent fragility fractures in 13% of men and 11% of women. Risk of fragility fractures at major osteoporotic sites, such as the hip, spine, shoulder and wrist, and remaining sites increased in men, regardless of the age when the distal forearm fracture occurred.

Disclosure: The researchers had no relevant financial disclosures.