[Bone density measurements in prevention of femoral neck fractures]

With a view to preventing hip fractures, bone mineral density measurements have been suggested as a means of selecting individuals at risk. We suggest two focuses in a preventive strategy: selection and information. The overlap in mineral density distributions among women who experience hip fractures and those who do not leads to a high number of inconclusive measurements as regards placing individuals into two such groups. The measurements should therefore be used primarily to inform individuals about their risk. In order to evaluate this technology, prospective studies on bone mineral density measurements prior to oestrogen hormone replacement therapy are highly desirable.