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Life-style and different fracture prevalence: a cross-sectional comparative population-based study
B Jónsson1, P Gärdsell, O Johnell
1Department of Orthopaedics, Malmö General Hospital, University of Lund, Sweden.
Calcified Tissue International
|June 1, 1993
Summary
Urban residents have a higher fracture prevalence due to less physical activity. This cross-sectional study compared lifestyle factors in urban Malmö and rural Sjöbo, Sweden, finding rural inhabitants more active.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedics and Public Health
- Epidemiology of Musculoskeletal Conditions
Background:
- Fracture prevalence is higher in urban settings compared to rural areas.
- Lifestyle factors are hypothesized to contribute to this disparity.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate lifestyle differences between urban and rural populations.
- To identify factors explaining the higher fracture prevalence in urban areas.
Main Methods:
- A sex- and age-matched cross-sectional study was conducted in Malmö (urban) and Sjöbo (rural), Sweden.
- Participants (N=1268) completed questionnaires on medical/social background and physical activity.
- Response rates were 73% in Malmö and 80% in Sjöbo.
Main Results:
- Rural residents reported significantly higher physical activity at work and during leisure time.
- Larger housing was noted in the rural area.
- Bone mass correlated with heavier workload in men; other lifestyle factors did not explain the urban-rural fracture difference.
Conclusions:
- Physically less active lifestyles in urban areas likely contribute to higher fracture prevalence.
- Physical activity appears to be a key determinant in explaining urban-rural differences in fracture rates.