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Having Diabetes Could Increase Your Risk of Fractures in Older Age

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Having Diabetes Could Increase Your Risk of Fractures in Older Age

Older age increases the risk of numerous health conditions and medical issues. Unfortunately, fractures are among them, as bones tend to get more brittle with old age. Seniors with type 2 diabetes may have an increased risk of fractures.

Old Age and Fractures

A recent study confirmed that there is a higher risk of fractures in older age. Dr. Elizabeth Samuelson from Hebrew SeniorLife’s Institute for Aging Research in Boston says that fractures in elders with type 2 diabetes is a very serious problem which needs much more attention. The growing epidemic of diabetes will only increase the issues as the diabetics population grows older.

In the three-year study, Samuelson and her colleagues assessed more than 1,000 people and found that elders with type 2 diabetes suffer from bone weakness that simply can’t be measured by standard bone density test procedures.

Osteoporosis and Diabetes

The risk of fractures in older age is a huge concern for those who suffer from osteoporosis. These fractures affect the overall quality of your life, and they may lead to disability and very high health care costs. Older adults with osteoporosis have up to 50 percent increased the risk of hip fractures.

Prevention

Studies have shown that various factors that influence the bone strength require better understanding for improved prevention efforts. Vitamin D and calcium supplementation is highly recommended.

Conclusion

Adults with type 2 diabetes have an increased risk of fractures in older age. Elderly people suffering from osteoporosis should be extra careful, as their risk of fractures is even higher. As all the factors that could lead to fractures continue to be thoroughly researched, older adults will be able to understand their risks better and possibly even mitigate them.