Hip fracture rates declined 2002-2012 for women over 65, on the rise 2013-2015: 4 things to know

Hip fracture rates have declined each year from 2002 to 2012 for women aged 65 years or older. However, hip fracture rates for 2013, 2014 and 2015 were higher than projected and resulted in an estimated increase of over 11,000 hip fractures, according to an analysis of Medicare claims data in Osteoporosis International.

Here are four things to know:

1. Due to high morbidity, mortality and healthcare expenses, hip fractures are a major public health burden.

2. Previous studies have reported a decrease in the annual incidence of hip fractures in the U.S. beginning in 1995, coinciding with the introduction of modern diagnostic tools and treatments for osteoporosis. In recent years, there has been less bone density testing and fewer osteoporosis prescriptions. The osteoporosis treatment gap may have adverse effects on hip fracture rates.

3. The study found that hip fracture rates decreased each year between 2002 and 2012 and then plateaued at levels higher than projected for 2013, 2014 and 2015.

4. The plateau in age-adjusted hip fracture incidence rates resulted in over an estimated 11,000 hip fractures between 2013 and 2015.

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