Community-based randomised controlled trial evaluating falls and osteoporosis risk management strategies
2008

Community-based trial for managing falls and osteoporosis risk

Sample size: 200 publication Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Ciaschini PM, Straus SE, Dolovich LR, Goeree RA, Leung KM, Woods CR, Zimmerman GM, Majumdar SR, Spadafora S, Fera LA, Lee HN

Primary Institution: Group Health Centre, Sault Ste. Marie, Canada

Hypothesis

Can a multifaceted community-based care program optimize the management of falls and fractures in patients at risk?

Conclusion

The study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of a community-based intervention in improving osteoporosis management and reducing falls.

Supporting Evidence

  • Osteoporosis affects over 200 million people worldwide.
  • Falls are the leading cause of accidental death among people aged 65 and older.
  • Interventions for osteoporosis treatment are underutilized despite their effectiveness.

Takeaway

This study is trying to help older people who might fall or break bones by giving them better care and advice.

Methodology

A randomized controlled trial with two groups: one receiving immediate intervention and the other receiving usual care for 6 months before crossing over to the intervention.

Potential Biases

Potential biases due to non-blinding of patients and physicians to the intervention.

Limitations

Randomization occurs at the patient level rather than the practice level, and the follow-up period is relatively short at 6 to 12 months.

Participant Demographics

Community-dwelling individuals aged 55 and older at risk for fractures.

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1186/1745-6215-9-62

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