Estimation of direct unit costs associated with non-vertebral osteoporotic fractures in five European countries

The objective of this study was to estimate the unit costs of non-vertebral osteoporotic fractures in five European countries based on the results of the SOTI and TROPOS clinical trials in postmenopausal osteoporotic women. The information recorded in the Case Report Forms was used. The perspective of third party payers was adopted. Hip fracture unit cost was the highest. The ranges of costs among countries was narrow for hip from 8,346 euros (Italy) to 9,907euros (France), but wider for other fractures: 890 euros (Spain) to 2,022 euros (Italy) for wrist, 1,167euros (Spain) to 3,268 euros (Italy) for pelvis, 837euros (Spain) to 2,116 euros (Italy) for sternum/clavicle, 565 euros (Spain) to 908 euros (France) for rib, 1,518 euros (Spain) to 3,651 euros (Belgium) for humerus, 1,805 euros (Spain) to 3,521 euros (Italy) for leg. The costs of those fractures should be considered when estimating the cost of osteoporosis.