According to data from the Women’s Health Initiative (WHI), it has been found that white women have the highest rates of fractures among postmenopausal women. However, other racial and ethnic groups are not far behind. Over a nearly 20-year period, the study showed that Black, Pacific Islander, Asian, and multiracial women had significantly lower risks for any clinical fracture compared to white women. This data can shed light on the disparities in fracture risks among different racial and ethnic groups.
One intriguing finding from the study was the different fracture incidence rates within Hispanic and Asian women. For example, Asian Indian women were found to have the highest age-standardized incidence rate for any fracture, comparable to white women. On the other hand, Filipina women had the lowest incidence rate, 47% lower than white women. This disparity highlights the need for more research into the factors contributing to these differences in fracture risks among various ethnic groups.
The study also revealed significant differences in hip fracture rates among different racial and ethnic groups. Compared to white women, there was a significantly lower rate of hip fractures among Black (71% lower), Asian (51% lower), and Hispanic women (43% lower). However, rates were not significantly different between white women and American Indian/Alaskan Native or Cuban women. This disparity in hip fracture risks among diverse groups underscores the importance of targeted fracture prevention strategies based on race and ethnicity.
The lead researcher, Nicole Wright, emphasized the importance of fracture prevention in addition to non-Hispanic white women. She advised that special attention should be given to American Indian and Alaskan Native, Asian Indian, and Cuban women who are at higher risk for fractures. Given the changing demographics of the U.S., particularly in older adults, it is crucial to address fracture prevention across diverse racial and ethnic groups. Bone health management is essential for primary and secondary fracture prevention in all women and men.
While the study provided valuable insights into racial disparities in fracture risks among postmenopausal women, there were limitations that should be addressed in future research. Factors such as education level, income, acculturation, nutrition, lifestyle, bone mineral density, and bone geometry were not adjusted for in the comparisons, which could have impacted the results. Future longitudinal studies should evaluate the contributors to these racial and ethnic differences in fracture risks to develop targeted interventions that minimize disparities in osteoporosis management and fracture outcomes.
The study highlights the need for a more comprehensive understanding of fracture risks among postmenopausal women from diverse racial and ethnic backgrounds. By addressing these disparities and developing targeted fracture prevention strategies, healthcare providers can improve bone health outcomes and reduce the burden of fractures in at-risk populations.