The correlation of anthropometric parameters and bone mineral density to femur neck fracture risk in elderly population.

Abstract

Hip fracture is the leading cause of morbidity in the geriatric population of Pakistan. The anthropometric parameters and bone mineral density is closely associated with risks of femur fracture on the elderly. Objectives: This study is oriented upon the relation of anthropometric parameters and bone mineral density with femur neck fracture in the elderly. Study Design: Cross sectional study. Setting: Mardan Medical Complex, Mardan, Pakistan. Period: May 2015 to October 2015. Material & Methods: A total of 121 patients both male and female from 50 to 70 years old were included in the study. Thirty patients had a history of hip fractures while 91 patients were age matched controls. Patients below 40 years and above 70 years were excluded as well as patients on long term steroids, or rheumatoid arthritis and bed ridden. Data regarding patient’s age, sex as well as height and weight were recorded. Both height and weight were measured in light clothing without shoes. Weight was measured using an electronic scale and standing height was measured to the nearest centimeter with a stadiometer. Body mass index was calculated as weight (kg)/height (m).² Bone mineral density was assisted by Quantitative ultrasound (QUS) heel, using WHO T-score. The Anthropometric parameters and bone mineral density of hip fracture cases were then compared with age-matched control groups. For statistical analysis of data, we used SPSS 20. Results: The average age of hip fracture patients were higher than the control. Females with hip fracture found taller, lighter and had low BMI (p=0.003). Bone mineral density of hip fracture cases were significantly lower as compared to T-score of control (p=0.0001). Height correlated significantly with BMI (r=2.68 p=0.005) and with BMD (r=2.56 p=0.005). Weight had significant correlation with BMI (r= 0.488 p=0.0001) and with BMD (r=0.212 p=0.002). Conclusion: The anthropometric parameter, especially body mass Index and bone mineral density seems to be associated with the risk of femur neck fracture.