PROFILE OF PATIENTS WITH OSTEOPOROTIC FRACTURES AND FACTORS THAT DECREASE PREVENTION

Area of Science:

• Gerontology
• Epidemiology
• Orthopedics

Background:

• Osteoporotic fractures (OF) and osteoarthritis (OA) are common conditions, particularly in aging populations.
• Understanding the epidemiological differences between OF and OA patients is crucial for targeted healthcare.
• Secondary prevention adherence is vital for managing OF and preventing subsequent fractures.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the epidemiological characteristics of patients with osteoporotic fractures (OF) versus osteoarthritis (OA).
• To identify factors associated with poor adherence to secondary prevention strategies in patients with OF.

Main Methods:

• A comparative study involving 108 patients with osteoporotic fractures (OF) and 86 patients with osteoarthritis (OA).
• Analysis of demographic, clinical, and functional data to identify differences between the groups.

Main Results:

• OF patients were older, had lower BMI, lower literacy, were more often Caucasian, and less frequently married compared to OA patients.
• OF patients reported more falls, cognitive deficits, previous fractures, and required more assistance and medication for osteoporosis.
• Factors associated with nonadherence in OF patients included older age, falls, cognitive deficiency, and depressive symptoms.

Conclusions:

• The epidemiological profile of OF patients is characterized by advanced age, specific comorbidities, and functional limitations.
• Adherence to secondary prevention in OF patients is negatively influenced by age, cognitive impairment, falls, and mood disturbances.
• Targeted interventions addressing these factors are necessary to improve outcomes for patients with osteoporotic fractures.