Vertebral Fracture Prevalence and Risk Factors in The Gambia
Author Information
Author(s): Kate A. Ward, Landing Jarjou, Camille Pearse, Mícheál Ó Breasail, Ramatoulie E. Janha, Ann Prentice, Nicola J. Crabtree
Primary Institution: MRC Unit The Gambia at London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine
Hypothesis
What is the prevalence and incidence of vertebral fractures in The Gambia, and what are the associated risk factors?
Conclusion
The prevalence of vertebral fractures in Gambian older adults is concerningly high and similar to that seen in higher-income countries.
Supporting Evidence
- The prevalence of vertebral fractures was found to be 14.8%.
- Older age and lower bone mineral density were associated with higher fracture risk.
- Women had a higher prevalence of fractures compared to men.
- Low grip strength was linked to an increased risk of incident fractures.
- Most fractures were classified as mild, with a significant number being moderate or severe.
Takeaway
This study found that many older people in The Gambia have broken bones in their backs, which is a big problem that needs attention.
Methodology
The study involved a prospective observational design with DXA scans to assess bone density and fractures in participants aged 40 and over.
Potential Biases
Potential biases include convenience sampling for urban participants and incomplete self-reported fracture data.
Limitations
The study may not be generalizable to the entire population as it focused on specific regions and had a low number of incident fractures.
Participant Demographics
Participants were Black African men and women aged 40 years and older, predominantly from the Mandinka ethnic group.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.01
Confidence Interval
95% CI: 12.01% − 18.0%
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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