Self-Report of One-Year Fracture Incidence and Osteoporosis Prevalence in a Community Cohort of Canadians with Spinal Cord Injury

Top Spinal Cord Inj Rehabil, 2014 · DOI: 10.1310/sci2003-302 · Published: January 1, 2014

Spinal Cord Injury Musculoskeletal Medicine

Simple Explanation

This study investigated the prevalence of fractures and osteoporosis in a community group of Canadians with long-term spinal cord injuries. The study found that a notable percentage of participants reported fractures and osteoporosis, highlighting the need for improved screening and treatment. The research suggests that certain risk factors, like the completeness of the spinal cord injury and having osteoporosis, are strongly linked to fracture incidence.

Study Duration

1 year

Participants

1,137 adults with chronic SCI

Evidence Level

Not specified

Key Findings

1
7.4% of participants reported a fracture in the previous 12 months.
2
21.5% of participants reported having osteoporosis in the same time period.
3
Osteoporosis was the variable most strongly associated with fracture incidence (OR, 4.3; 95% CI, 2.72-6.89).

Research Summary

The study aimed to describe the 1-year incidence of fracture and osteoporosis prevalence in a community cohort of Canadians with chronic SCI. The results indicated a significant prevalence of fractures and osteoporosis among the participants, with osteoporosis being a strong correlate of fracture. The authors concluded that there is a need for improved bone health screening and treatment programs, especially for individuals with complete SCI.

Practical Implications

Improved Screening

Routine osteoporosis and fracture screening are necessary due to the high fracture-related morbidity and mortality in the SCI population.

Treatment Programs

The discordance between osteoporosis diagnosis and treatment rates necessitates improved bone health treatment programs.

REACT Framework

The REACT framework (Recognize, Educate, Annual assessment, Classify, Therapy) is proposed as a population health campaign to prioritize bone health in individuals with SCI.

Study Limitations

1
Self-reported nature of the data may lead to underestimation of fracture and osteoporosis prevalence.
2
The timeline for self-report was 12 months, which may not capture the full history of osteoporosis and fractures.
3
The study did not verify fracture occurrence or the timeline for fracture occurrence.

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