Incidence of Colles' fracture in a North American community

In a 30-year period, 1,137 adult residents of Rochester, Minnesota experienced 1235 Colles' fractures. Fracture incidence among women increased over sixfold between ages 35-39 and 60-64 and then leveled off. Male rates were lower in every age group and did not rise as dramatically. Fractures associated with moderate trauma were responsible for the increased incidence with age and the excess among women. Overall, Rochester rates were 30 per cent or more greater than those reported from communities in other countries (Am J Public Health 1982; 72:605-607.).