Hip fracture incidence among older people in Auckland: a population-based study

To determine the incidence of hip fractures among those aged 60 years or older in the Auckland region.

Demographic data were obtained on all older people hospitalised with a fracture of the femoral neck in Auckland, between 8 July 1991 and 7 February 1994. Incidence rates were calculated using the 1991 census data.

An average incidence of 733 hip fractures or 710 individuals sustaining hip fractures each year was observed. Age-adjusted incidence rates were 571.5 per 100,000 for women and 318.2 per 100,000 for men. 97.0% of the hip fractures were sustained by those identified in the records as European, with the rates for Maori and Pacific Island populations 25-50% lower than for Europeans. Among Maori and Pacific Island populations, incidence rates were similar for men and women. Overall, 41.8% of the hip fractures were sustained by those > or = 85 years, with 67.0% sustained by those > or = 80 years. Incidence rates increased with age, with the rates continuing to increase in those > or = 85 years.

Among Europeans, hip fracture incidence rates in Auckland are similar to those found for other caucasian populations. However, the rates among Maori and Pacific Island populations are among the lowest internationally and are similar for men and women. The increase in incidence rates with age continues in those > or = 85 years.