The prevention of osteoporotic vertebral fractures in eastern and in western countries

Abstract

Osteoporotic vertebral fractures (VFs) are among the most common and clinically significant manifestations of skeletal fragility, contributing substantially to morbidity, disability, and future fracture risk worldwide. Yet, their recognition and management remain inconsistent across regions. To explore differences and similarities in the prevalence, diagnosis, management, and prevention of vertebral fractures, the East Meets West (EmW) Action Group of the European Calcified Tissue Society convened a multi-country exchange among clinical and research experts from Europe, the USA, and East Asia. This report summarizes the discussions and synthesizes current knowledge on the topic. Evidence from China, South Korea, Japan, and Germany shows a wide range in reported VF prevalence and incidence, largely influenced by differences in population aging, imaging access, and diagnostic adjudication methods. While lateral spine radiographs remain the standard for detection in both research and clinical care, variable use of quantitative morphometry (QM), semi-quantitative (SQ), and algorithm-based qualitative (ABQ) methods limits comparability. MRI remains the gold standard for assessing fracture acuity, but is not feasible for widespread screening. VFA via DXA is gaining popularity, although underutilized in several settings. Despite the availability of effective pharmacologic treatments, including bisphosphonates, denosumab, and anabolic agents, treatment rates following VF remain suboptimal across all countries studied. None of the countries currently has a nationwide vertebral fracture screening program, although fracture liaison services (FLS) and AI-assisted imaging offer promising pathways forward. The lack of a universally accepted definition and gold standard for VF adjudication continues to hamper clinical decision-making and data harmonization. This report highlights the need for greater international consensus on diagnostic criteria, improved integration of vertebral fracture screening into clinical workflows, and the development of targeted strategies to close treatment gaps and reduce the global burden of vertebral fractures.