Osteoporosis Epidemic

Fragility Fractures…

Represent a Significant Societal Problem
Fragility fractures have become nearly epidemic in the United States among older adults with over 2 million fractures each year - more than heart attacks, strokes, and breast cancer combined.¹

Continue to Increase
At least 44 million Americans are affected by osteoporosis or low bone density. ^4,5 Due to an aging population, the number of Americans with osteoporosis or low bone density is expected to increase significantly.⁶  Up to one-half of all women and up to one quarter of all men will suffer fragility fractures in their lifetimes.⁴

Result in Enormous Costs
Direct care expenditure from osteoporosis-related fractures exceeds $19 billion annually.⁴ By 2025, the annual cost of fractures is projected to grow to more than $25 billion, as annual fractures surpass 3 million.⁴

Are Undertreated
Approximately 80% of patients do not receive recommended osteoporosis care following a fracture.⁷ Men, who account for 30% of fractures and 25% of costs, are particularly undertreated.^1,9

HEDIS Measure - % Compliance⁷

Cause an Unnecessary and Devastating Toll
Nearly 25% of patients who suffer a hip fracture die within a year.⁴ Those who do survive often experience a loss of independence and may require long-term nursing home care.

Are the First Sign of Poor Bone Health
One of the best indicators for a future fracture is a previous fragility fracture.⁸ Fragiliy fractures are the first sign of poor bone health.  Patients with a fragility fracture are at an 86% higher risk of a second fracture.⁹

Provide a "Teachable Moment"
Fragility fractures, as sentinel events, provide opportunities for clinicians to educate patients, fellow physicians and other healthcare providers about the importance of bone health and osteoporosis treatment.⁸