Screening, prevention and management of osteoporosis among Canadian adults

This study provides a benchmark for the nationwide use of osteoporosis screening, prevention and management strategies among Canadians aged 40 years and older (40+) using data collected one year prior to the release of Osteoporosis Canada's latest (2010) clinical practice guidelines.

Data are from the 2009 Canadian Community Health Survey-Osteoporosis Rapid Response Component. The study sample (n = 5704) was divided into four risk subgroups: (1) osteoporosis diagnosis and major fracture; (2) osteoporosis diagnosis only; (3) major fracture only; or (4) neither osteoporosis diagnosis nor major fracture. We calculated descriptive statistics and performed multinomial multivariate logistic regression analyses to examine factors independently associated with osteoporosis screening, prevention and management strategies. Estimates were weighted to represent the Canadian household population (40+) living in the 10 provinces.

Approximately 10.1% of the population or 1.5 million Canadians 40+ reported having been diagnosed with osteoporosis. The majority related taking vitamin D or calcium supplements and having been prescribed osteoporosis medication(s), while less than 40% reported regular physical activity. Among those without a reported osteoporosis diagnosis, an estimated 6.7% or 1 million reported having had a major fracture, of which one-third reported having had a bone density test and less than half reported taking vitamin D supplements, calcium supplements or engaging in regular physical activity. Major fracture history was not associated with bone density testing or osteoporosis medication use.

A large proportion of Canadians at risk for osteoporosis-those with a major fracture history-are not undergoing bone density testing nor are they engaging in lifestyle approaches known to help maintain healthy bones. This study provides the historical information required to evaluate whether the latest clinical practice guidelines have had an impact on osteoporosis care in Canada.