WHO Tool Helps Physicians Predict Fracture Risk
BY LAUREN UZDIENSKI, DECEMBER 23, 2008
In an effort to individualize treatment for patients presenting with fractured bones as well as make treatment more cost-effective, the WHO has launched a web tool to help physicians assess the likelihood of future fractures. Knowing future fracture risk can help physicians determine whether further diagnostics are needed or whether the patient should be treated for osteoporosis.
Physicians enter a number of factors into FRAX, including age, weight, sex, bone mineral density and history of fractures as well as lifestyle factors such as smoking and alcohol consumption. The model can give percentage risk for patients aged between 40 and 90. For example, a 55-year-old female non-smoker with a previous fracture but no family history of hip fracture is predicted to have a 5.1% chance of a major osteoporotic fracture over the next ten years.
Traditionally, physicians have relied on bone mineral density tests to diagnose osteoporosis and assess the need for treatment. However, low bone mineral density does not always predict future fractures. FRAX, which has formed the basis of osteoporosis guidelines in the U.K., can help physicians avoid unnecessary treatment, which can benefit patients as well as potentially reduce healthcare costs.
