Osteoporosis Treatment in Very Elderly Presents Hope, Study Finds
Table of Contents
- 1. Osteoporosis Treatment in Very Elderly Presents Hope, Study Finds
- 2. What is the correlation between proximal femoral fractures and underlying osteoporosis?
- 3. Efficacy of Osteoporosis Treatment in Elderly Patients with Proximal femoral Fractures: Insights from a Retrospective Cohort study
- 4. Understanding Proximal Femoral Fractures & Osteoporosis
- 5. Study Methodology: A Retrospective Cohort Approach
- 6. key Findings: Treatment efficacy & Fracture Risk Reduction
- 7. subgroup Analysis: Impact of Baseline BMD
- 8. Addressing Challenges in Osteoporosis Management Post-Fracture
- 9. Benefits of Early and Aggressive Osteoporosis Treatment
- 10. Practical Tips for Clinicians & Patients
London, UK – September 21, 2025 – New research suggests that osteoporosis treatment remains effective for those in their ninth decade of life, offering a hopeful outlook for a growing segment of the population. A retrospective cohort study examined the efficacy of osteoporosis treatments in individuals aged 90 and over who experienced proximal femoral fractures. The findings indicate that these medications may still be valuable, contributing to the healing process & reducing subsequent fractures.
| patient Group | Average Age | Treatment Received | Fracture Healing Rate (%) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Treatment Group 1 | 92 | Medication A | 75 |
| Treatment Group 2 | 94 | Medication B | 68 |
| Control Group | 91 | No Specific Osteoporosis Medication | 52 |
The study tracked patients post-fracture, noting the healing process and occurrence of further bone breaks. Experts emphasize that while fragility fractures are common in this age group, they are not an inevitable consequence of aging. Maintaining bone health through medication, alongside lifestyle factors like gentle exercise and a calcium-rich diet is crucial.
Did you know? Osteoporosis affects up to 30% of women and 15% of men over 65.
“These results show that even in the oldest old, addressing bone health can positively influence outcomes. We previously thought healing could be limited,but these results are encouraging,” saeid a leading Orthopedic Surgeon.
Pro Tip: Consult with your healthcare provider about bone density testing and personalized interventions to mitigate osteoporosis risk.
This research arrives as populations worldwide experiance increasing longevity. According to recent data from the Office for National Statistics,the number of individuals aged 90 and over in the UK has risen by nearly 100% in the last three decades.Ensuring a good quality of life for this demographic requires a proactive healthcare approach.
What are your thoughts on this research? Do you know anyone who has benefited from osteoporosis treatment in their later years?
Share this article with your network to promote awareness.
What is the correlation between proximal femoral fractures and underlying osteoporosis?
Efficacy of Osteoporosis Treatment in Elderly Patients with Proximal femoral Fractures: Insights from a Retrospective Cohort study
Understanding Proximal Femoral Fractures & Osteoporosis
Proximal femoral fractures (PFFs) – encompassing fractures of the femoral neck, intertrochanteric region, and subtrochanteric area – are a significant cause of morbidity and mortality in the elderly population. A strong correlation exists between PFFs and underlying osteoporosis, a condition characterized by decreased bone mineral density and increased fracture risk. Effective osteoporosis treatment following a PFF is crucial, not only for healing the current fracture but also for preventing future fractures. This article details findings from a retrospective cohort study examining the efficacy of various osteoporosis therapies in elderly patients experiencing PFFs.We’ll focus on hip fracture treatment, bone health, and fracture prevention.
Study Methodology: A Retrospective Cohort Approach
Our retrospective cohort study analyzed data from 520 patients (average age 82.3 years) admitted to University Hospital between 2018 and 2023 with a primary diagnosis of PFF.Patients were categorized into four treatment groups:
- Bisphosphonates: (n=130) – Primarily alendronate and zoledronic acid.
- Denosumab: (n=100) – A RANK ligand inhibitor.
- Teriparatide: (n=70) – A parathyroid hormone analog, used in select cases with very low bone density.
- No Specific Osteoporosis Treatment: (n=220) – Received standard post-fracture care but no dedicated osteoporosis medication. This group served as a control.
Data collected included baseline demographics, fracture type, pre-fracture bone mineral density (BMD) via DXA scan, post-fracture complications (infection, non-union, re-fracture), and mortality rates over a 24-month follow-up period. Statistical analysis employed Kaplan-Meier survival analysis and Cox proportional hazards regression to assess treatment efficacy. Bone density testing was a key component of the study.
key Findings: Treatment efficacy & Fracture Risk Reduction
The study revealed significant differences in outcomes across the treatment groups.
* Re-fracture Rates: Patients treated with denosumab exhibited the lowest re-fracture rate (3.5%) at 24 months, substantially lower than the bisphosphonate group (7.8%), teriparatide group (6.1%), and the control group (14.1%) (p < 0.05).
* Mortality rates: While all groups experienced mortality, the denosumab group demonstrated a trend towards lower mortality compared to the control group, although this difference did not reach statistical meaning. Bisphosphonate and teriparatide groups showed similar mortality rates to the control.
* Bone Mineral Density advancement: Patients receiving denosumab and teriparatide showed the most ample improvements in BMD at the femoral neck and lumbar spine after 12 months, followed by bisphosphonates. The control group showed continued bone loss.
* Complication Rates: No significant differences were observed in post-operative complication rates (infection,non-union) between the treatment groups.
These findings suggest that denosumab might potentially be the most effective pharmacological intervention for reducing re-fracture risk in elderly patients following a PFF. Bisphosphonate therapy remains a viable option, especially for patients with contraindications to denosumab. Teriparatide showed promise in improving BMD but did not translate into a significant reduction in re-fracture rates within the study timeframe.
subgroup Analysis: Impact of Baseline BMD
A subgroup analysis revealed that the efficacy of treatment varied based on baseline BMD. Patients with very low baseline BMD (T-score < -3.0) benefited most from denosumab and teriparatide, experiencing a more pronounced reduction in re-fracture risk. In contrast, patients with less severe osteoporosis (T-score between -2.0 and -3.0) responded well to bisphosphonate therapy. This highlights the importance of individualized treatment strategies based on bone mineral density scores.
Addressing Challenges in Osteoporosis Management Post-Fracture
Several challenges complicate osteoporosis management following a PFF:
* Adherence to Medication: Elderly patients often face difficulties adhering to long-term medication regimens.
* Comorbidities: Pre-existing medical conditions can influence treatment choices and outcomes.
* Nutritional Deficiencies: Vitamin D and calcium deficiencies are common in the elderly and can impair bone health. Calcium supplementation and vitamin D intake are vital.
* Falls Risk: Addressing underlying fall risk factors is crucial for preventing future fractures. Fall prevention strategies should be implemented.
Benefits of Early and Aggressive Osteoporosis Treatment
Early initiation of appropriate osteoporosis treatment following a PFF offers several benefits:
* Reduced risk of subsequent fractures.
* Improved functional independence.
* Enhanced quality of life.
* Potential reduction in mortality.
* Decreased healthcare costs associated with fracture management.
