Risk factors and prevention of fractures in the elderly.

Osteoporotic fractures represent a major public health problem in Western countries, and effective, preventive interventions are urgently needed. Whether it is worthwhile to begin treatment for osteoporosis prevention in elderly women has been the subject of some controversy. Although a 65- or 70-year-old woman is entering the highest period of risk for substaining hip and other fractures, it has been suggested that starting at this age may be too late for effective prevention. However, recent research supports the view that elderly women will greatly benefit from intervention such as physical training, dietary supplementation, or even estrogen replacement therapy. Several studies also suggest that focusing on the prevention of bone loss addresses only part of the problem. Preventing falls may also contribute substantially to reducing fracture rates in the elderly.