Osteoporosis management in a rural community hospital in Japan: a cross-sectional retrospective study

Abstract

Objectives Osteoporosis is a condition characterised by decreased bone strength and an increased risk of fragility fractures. Its prevalence is increasing in developed countries, highlighting the need for appropriate diagnosis and intervention. However, in practice, adequate testing and treatment are not often provided. Therefore, in this study, we investigated the status of osteoporosis management in a rural community hospital in Japan.Design Cross-sectional retrospective study.Setting Department of General Medicine from a rural community hospital in Japan.Participants A total of 984 women aged≥65 years who were recommended to undergo osteoporosis screening were included.Primary and secondary outcome measures Bone mineral density (BMD) testing rates and characteristics of patients who underwent these tests, including diagnosis and treatment rates for osteoporosis.Results The BMD testing rate was 14%. Despite being at risk of osteoporosis, older patients and those requiring nursing care had a lower rate of testing. The proportion of patients diagnosed with osteoporosis was 41%, and the treatment rate was 19%.Conclusions The management of osteoporosis in a rural Japanese community hospital was found to be inadequate. The rate of BMD testing was low, particularly among older adults and those requiring nursing care. This finding suggests that osteoporosis may be underdiagnosed in many cases in this population or diagnosed but not appropriately followed up. Further cohort studies and intervention strategies are needed to fully investigate these issues.