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Research by UTS revealed minimal strategies helped in reducing hip fractures .
Less is more
New research finds simple strategies helps reduce hip fractures
By Arshmah Jamal
A new study by the University of Technology Sydney ( UTS ) revealed that simple strategies can help to reduce hip fractures . The study found that simple strategies , such as walking , could lead to an extensive decrease in hip fractures .
Lead researcher Professor Tuan Nguyen said it was important for people to take simple measures to improve their bone health , even if they seemed minute .
“ Bone mineral density is modifiable , and even small improvements reduce the fracture risk ,” Professor Nguyen said .
“ Bone health is affected by lifestyle factors such as smoking , physical activity , and nutrition – including vitamin D and dietary calcium intake .”
“ Stopping smoking , maintaining moderate physical activity , and eating a healthy diet can all help reduce bone loss .”
Falls were considered the number one preventable injury in aged care , with around 42 per cent of hospitalisations and 40 per cent of deaths .
Hip fractures dramatically increased the risk of death – around 37 per cent of men and 20 per cent of women dying within one year of a hip fracture .
Professor Nguyen said implementing minimal efforts was similar to wearing a car seatbelt .
“ Wearing a seatbelt might bring little benefit to an individual because the probability of having a car accident is very low , but we know this simple action does save lives in the community ,” he said .
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Our study suggests that population strategies focused on those at low or moderate risk are likely to be more effective
“ Some people who follow medication regimens or engage in lifestyle modification programs notice a slight change in bone mineral density , and they might believe these measures hold little benefit for them .” “ However , even these minor effects can substantially reduce fracture risk for the community .”
Epidemiologist and author of the research Dr Thach Tran , said the findings are relevant to a range of stakeholders , including individuals , public health policymakers , and medical professionals .
“ Our study suggests that population strategies focused on reducing risk in those at low or moderate risk are likely to be more effective than those focused on high-risk individuals ,” Dr Tran said . ■
4 agedcareinsite . com . au