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Age Considerations
For younger adults (those under fifty), the primary cause of vertebral compression fractures is sudden trauma. For older adults, osteoporosis is the primary cause of fractures - in this age segment, daily activities may cause compression fractures.
Gender
While women are twice as susceptible to osteoporosis, after its onset the prevalence of vertebral fractures in men and women are roughly equal. Men tend to develop osteoporosis and vertebral fractures five to ten years later than women.
Prevalence
Tracking the prevalence of compression fractures requires tracking the prevalence of osteoporosis. Over 30 million Americans are affected by osteoporosis, leading to an estimated 1.5 million fractures per year. About half of all osteoporotic fractures are vertebral.
Mortality Rate and Morbidity
Mortality from vertebral compression fractures does increase with severe cases. Patients with severe fractures have nine times the risk for death than those without compression fractures. In addition, untreated fractures can cause complications such as additional fractures, deformation, height loss, and permanent disability. Strength, sensation, and regular bodily functions may also be affected.
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