Anthropometry, physical activity and hip fractures in the elderly
Vassiliki Benetou1, Philippos Orfanos, Ioannis S Benetos
1Department of Hygiene, Epidemiology and Medical Statistics, University of Athens Medical School, 75 Mikras Asias St., 115 27 Athens, Greece. vben@nut.uoa.gr
Injury
|September 25, 2010
Summary
Higher body mass index (BMI) and increased physical activity are linked to a lower risk of hip fractures in older Europeans. Conversely, greater body height was associated with a higher incidence of these fractures.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Epidemiology
- Public Health
Background:
- Hip fractures are a significant and increasing global health concern for the elderly population.
- This study investigated factors influencing hip fracture incidence in elderly Europeans.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine the association between anthropometric measurements and physical activity levels with the incidence of hip fractures in elderly Europeans.
- To identify potential modifiable risk factors for hip fracture prevention.
Main Methods:
- A prospective cohort study involving 27,982 European adults aged 60 and above from the European Prospective Investigation into Cancer and nutrition (EPIC) study.
- Data on anthropometry, physical activity, and medical history were collected at baseline, with hip fractures ascertained over an 8-year median follow-up.
- Cox proportional hazard regression models were used for data analysis, adjusting for potential confounders.
Main Results:
- Higher body mass index (BMI) was associated with a reduced risk of hip fractures (HR per quintile: 0.85).
- Increased body height correlated with a higher risk of hip fractures (HR per 5 cm: 1.13).
- Higher levels of leisure-time physical activity were linked to a lower incidence of hip fractures (HR per tertile: 0.84).
Conclusions:
- Elevated BMI and increased leisure-time physical activity are associated with a decreased incidence of hip fractures in elderly Europeans.
- While greater body stature appears to increase hip fracture risk, physical activity and BMI may play protective roles.
- These findings suggest that lifestyle factors like physical activity and maintaining a healthy BMI could contribute to hip fracture prevention strategies in older adults.
