Time trend analysis of osteoporosis prevalence among adults 50 years of age and older in the USA, 2005-2018.

Abstract

Using data from NHANES for years 2005-2018, we examined temporal trends in osteoporosis prevalence and the proportion of undiagnosed osteoporosis in the United States of America. Our results suggested statistically significant increases in osteoporosis prevalence across several demographic groups. These findings carry profound implications for public health, given increased life expectancy and burden of chronic diseases.

Introduction: This is the first study to assess osteoporosis prevalence trends over time and the proportion of undiagnosed osteoporosis across gender, ethnicity/race, and age groups.

Methods: Observational time trend analyses were conducted using the 2005-2006, 2007-2008, 2009-2010, 2013-2014, and 2017-2018 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) datasets, along with a descriptive analysis using the 2017-2018 NHANES dataset to capture the proportion of undiagnosed osteoporosis.

Results: The findings showed a statistically significant increase in osteoporosis prevalence among women, non-Hispanic Whites, and all age groups (except for individuals 80 years of age and older) during the study period. A subsequent analysis examining individuals by both gender and ethnicity/race demonstrated a statistically significant increase among Other Hispanic men and non-Hispanic White women. Additional descriptive analyses found that 69.12% of individuals with osteoporosis went undiagnosed. Specifically, 86.88% of men and 84.77% of individuals 50-59 years of age with osteoporosis went undiagnosed, representing the two highest groups.

Discussion and conclusion: The substantial and increasing prevalence among certain groups and sub-groups, along with the lack of diagnostic capture of osteoporosis, highlights existing gaps in public health efforts and care delivery infrastructure. This paper highlights high-risk groups and sub-groups that may benefit most from accelerated initiatives to reduce the burden of illness associated with osteoporosis.