Prevalence and Determinants of Osteoporotic Fractures in Geriatric Patients: A Hospital-Based Epidemiological Study

Abstract

Background: Osteoporotic fractures are a major public health concern among geriatric patients, leading to significant morbidity, mortality, and loss of independence. Understanding their prevalence and determinants is crucial for effective prevention and management. Aim: To determine the prevalence and identify the key determinants of osteoporotic fractures in elderly patients admitted to a tertiary care hospital. Methodology: A hospital-based cross-sectional study was conducted over 12 months (January 2022 to December 2022) in the Department of Orthopaedics, Sheikh Bhikhari Medical College and Hospital, Hazaribagh, Jharkhand, India. Ninety patients aged ≥65 years with radiologically confirmed osteoporotic fractures were enrolled. Demographic, clinical, and radiological data were collected. Logistic regression was used to identify independent determinants. Results: The majority of participants were females (57.8%) and from rural areas (67.8%). Hip fractures were most common (37.8%), followed by vertebral fractures (24.4%). Low-energy falls accounted for 62.2% of fractures. Significant determinants included age ≥75 years (OR=2.14), female gender (OR=1.86), history of previous fracture (OR=2.72), physical inactivity (OR=1.95), and vitamin D deficiency (OR=2.38; all p<0.05). Conclusion: Osteoporotic fractures predominantly affect elderly females, mainly involving the hip and vertebrae, and are primarily caused by low-energy trauma. Early identification and targeted preventive strategies addressing both modifiable and non-modifiable risk factors are essential to reduce fracture incidence and associated healthcare burden.