Aantal heupfracturen zal drastisch toenemen

During the past few decades there has been an increasing interest in osteoporosis. Although defined in terms of bone mineral density, its clinical relevance lies in the fractures that arise from it. Hip fracture is associated with considerable morbidity, mortality and cost and is therefore considered the most important fracture. It is expected that the number of hip fractures in the Netherlands will rise considerably during the coming decades. Hip fractures not only result from low bone mineral density but also from extraskeletal factors. General preventive measures comprise optimal nutrition, physical exercise and fall prevention. Specific intervention in patients with a high risk of fracture can be accomplished by medication or mechanical protection of the hips. Currently there is no generally accepted strategy for the identification and treatment of these patients.