Osteoporosis and Fracture Risk among Older US Asian Adults

Area of Science:

• Gerontology
• Orthopedics
• Public Health

Background:

• Asian adults exhibit lower areal bone density compared to non-Hispanic White adults.
• Despite lower bone density, US Asian adults have a reduced risk of hip fracture.
• Factors contributing to lower hip fracture risk include favorable hip geometry, bone density, microarchitecture, and reduced fall risk.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review current knowledge on osteoporosis and fracture in older US Asian adults.
• To highlight disparities and specific considerations for this demographic.
• To identify gaps in research for improved health equity.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of current scientific knowledge.
• Analysis of bone density, fracture risk, and treatment data.
• Examination of subgroup variations and atypical femur fracture risks.

Main Results:

• US Asian adults are more frequently diagnosed and treated for osteoporosis.
• The FRAX calculator acknowledges lower hip fracture risk in US Asian adults.
• Major osteoporotic fracture risk data are limited, and fracture rates vary by Asian subgroup.
• Asian race is a risk factor for atypical femur fracture in women on bisphosphonates.

Conclusions:

• More research is essential for US Asian adults' osteoporosis care, including risk-benefit analyses and bisphosphonate treatment duration.
• Evidence-based guidance for primary fracture prevention is needed to ensure health equity.
• Understanding subgroup variations is crucial for accurate fracture risk assessment.