Women’s Perceptions of Future Risk After Low-Energy Fractures at Midlife

The Article in Brief

Low-energy fractures experienced by women at midlife or later may increase their risk of future fractures and may be early signs of low bone density (osteoporosis). In this study, 22 women older than 40 years who had experienced a fracture as a result of osteoporosis in the previous year were interviewed. Most did not see their previous fracture as a sign that they were more susceptible to future fractures and did not commit themselves to long-term prevention. Most of the women�s views fell into one of 2 groups: (1) they preferred to wait and see what the future held, or (2) they recognized some of the things they should be doing to reduce their risk but were not consistent in making changes or finding information. Family physicians can play an important role in educating patients about short- and long-term bone health and actions that may prevent additional fractures.