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Incidence of fracture increases after weight gain, loss in postmenopausal women
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Weight gain, weight loss and intentional weight loss among postmenopausal women was associated with increased incidence of fracture, which differed by fracture location, according to study results.
Using data from the Women’s Health Initiative Observational Study and the Women’s Health Initiative Clinical Trials, researchers followed 120,566 postmenopausal women who had information regarding weight change and at least 1 year of follow-up regarding incident fractures. Participants completed baseline self-assessment questionnaires, and the researchers measured weight and height at baseline and at the third annual follow-up visit with standardized protocols. Main outcomes included incidence self-reported fractures of the upper limbs, lower limbs and central body, as well as hip fractures confirmed by medical records.
Results showed 65.6% of patients had stable weight, 15.2% lost weight and 19% gained weight. The researchers found a 65% higher incidence rate of fracture in the hip, upper limb and central body associated with weight loss and a higher incidence rate of fracture in the upper limb and lower limb associated with weight gain compared with stable weight.
A 33% higher incidence rate of hip fracture and increased incidence rates of vertebral fracture were associated with unintentional weight loss, whereas intentional weight loss was associated with increased incidence rates of lower-limb fracture and decreased incidence of hip fracture, according to the researchers. – by Casey Tingle
Disclosures: The researchers report no relevant financial disclosures.
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