Study Links Moderate Physical Activity to Reduced Fracture Risk in Postmenopausal Women
Understanding the Fracture Risk in Postmenopausal Women
A recent study has highlighted that even moderate levels of physical activity can significantly lower the risk of fractures in postmenopausal women. This demographic is particularly vulnerable, with nearly 1.5 million fractures occurring annually in the United States, primarily in the hip region. Factors such as low bone mineral density (BMD), reduced muscle strength, and balance issues contribute to this increased fracture risk.
Overview of the Women’s Health Initiative Study
The study, part of the Women’s Health Initiative (WHI), analyzed data from 77,206 women aged 50 to 79 across 40 clinical centers in the United States. Researchers examined various factors, including the type and intensity of physical activity, and their impact on fracture incidence. Key variables considered included age, race/ethnicity, medication use, calcium and vitamin D intake, osteoporosis history, and fall frequency. The findings were published in the journal JAMA Network Open.
Findings on Physical Activity and Fracture Risk
Over an average follow-up period of 14 years, 33.1% of participants reported experiencing a first incident fracture. The study revealed that physical activity, even at mild levels, was linked to a reduced risk of hip fractures. Total physical activity contributed to a lower risk of knee fractures, while moderate to vigorous exercise decreased hip fracture risk but was associated with a higher likelihood of wrist or forearm fractures. Notably, mild activity was correlated with a decrease in vertebral fractures and overall fracture risk. Additionally, sedentary behavior of over 9.5 hours daily was associated with a 4% increase in the risk of all fractures.
Implications for Physical Activity Recommendations
The comprehensive nature of this study indicates that both recreational and non-recreational physical activities can lower the risk of hip, vertebral, and total fractures. Regular physical activity enhances balance and muscle strength, suggesting that even a modest amount of exercise, easily adopted by older individuals, could mitigate fracture risks in postmenopausal women.
According to the study authors, “The current results suggest that lower-intensity activities, including walking and non-recreational activities, could have a benefit on fracture risk at older ages. If confirmed, future recommendations on fracture prevention in postmenopausal women should promote light physical activity, especially in those who are frail and unable to safely engage in more intense activities.”
References
LaMonte, M., Wactawski-Wende, J., Larson, J., Mai, X., Robbins, J., LeBoff, M., Chen, Z., Jackson, R., LaCroix, A., Ockene, J., Hovey, K., and Cauley, J. (2019). Association of Physical Activity and Fracture Risk Among Postmenopausal Women. JAMA Network Open, 2(10), p.e1914084.
EurekAlert! (2019). How is physical activity associated with fracture risk in older women? Available at: https://www.eurekalert.org/pub_releases/2019-10/jn-hip102219.php [Accessed 3 Nov. 2019].
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