Less is more: New research finds simple strategies helps reduce hip fractures

A new study by the University of Technology Sydney (UTS) revealed that simple strategies can help to reduce hip fractures.

The study found that simple strategies, such as walking, could lead to an extensive decrease in hip fractures.

Lead researcher Professor Tuan Nguyen said it was important for people to take simple measures to improve their bone health, even if they seemed minute.

“Bone mineral density is modifiable, and even small improvements reduce the fracture risk,” Professor Nguyen said.

“Bone health is affected by lifestyle factors such as smoking, physical activity, and nutrition – including vitamin D and dietary calcium intake.”

“Stopping smoking, maintaining moderate physical activity, and eating a healthy diet can all help reduce bone loss.”

Falls were considered the number one preventable injury in aged care, with around 42 per cent of hospitalisations and 40 per cent of deaths.

Hip fractures dramatically increased the risk of death – around 37 per cent of men and 20 per cent of women dying within one year of a hip fracture.

Professor Nguyen said implementing minimal efforts was similar to wearing a car seatbelt.

“Wearing a seatbelt might bring little benefit to an individual because the probability of having a car accident is very low, but we know this simple action does save lives in the community,” he said.

“Some people who follow medication regimens or engage in lifestyle modification programs notice a slight change in bone mineral density, and they might believe these measures hold little benefit for them.”

“However, even these minor effects can substantially reduce fracture risk for the community.”

Epidemiologist and author of the research, Dr Thach Tran, said the findings will interest individuals, public health policymakers, and medical professionals.

“Our study suggests that population strategies focused on reducing risk in those at low or moderate risk are likely to be more effective than those focused on high-risk individuals,” Dr Tran said.

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