The Article in Brief

Validation of a 4-Item Score Predicting Hip Fracture and Mortality Risk Among Elderly Women

Daniel M. Albertsson , and colleagues

Background The aim of this study was to develop and test a practical tool to assess the risk of hip fracture and death in elderly women.

What This Study Found The Fracture and Mortality Index uses simple yes/no questions about 4 risk factors for hip fracture: old age, low weight, previously broken bones, and using arms to rise from a sitting position. This tool predicts hip fractures as well as more complex scoring systems. Among 1,248 women participating in the survey, most (63%) had 0 or 1 risk factor, which suggests a very low risk of hip fracture and death within 2 years. The risk of hip fracture was more than 7 times higher for the 37% of women with at least 2 risk factors.

Implications

• The Fracture and Mortality Index is a simple, practical tool for routine use in primary care.