Incidence of fractures and changes over time among the aged in Hail region

Abstract

Background: Fractures result in a range of consequences, including work absence, reduced productivity, disability, diminished quality of life, health deterioration, and substantial healthcare costs. This study aimed to investigate the incidence and common causes of fractures in the Hail region, to identify preventive measures. In addition, it sought to serve as a reference point for future interventional studies on fracture incidence and causative factors. Methods: This cross-sectional study collected data through a self-administered questionnaire distributed among individuals who had experienced fractures in the Hail region of Saudi Arabia. A total of 1,936 participants who had suffered fractures were included in the study. Results: The majority of study participants (72.2%) experienced only one fracture, primarily located in the upper extremities (52.9%), pelvis (37.5%), lower extremities (9.7%), backbone (7.4%), and fingers and toes (2.8%). Falls were the leading cause of fractures (51.7%), followed by road traffic accidents (29%), car accidents (16.5%), and injuries during football (1.7%). A substantial portion (51.1%) had experienced their fracture for more than 2 years, while 22.7% had fractures within the past year. Complications with healing were observed in 73% of participants aged 30-40 years, 60% of females, 76.9% of diabetics, and 55.1% of those with more than one fracture. In addition, all individuals with backbone fractures experienced complications in healing. Conclusion: This study sheds light on the incidence and causes of fractures in the Hail region, emphasizing the significant burden they impose on individuals, families, society, and healthcare systems. Falls were the most common cause of fractures, highlighting the importance of fall prevention strategies.