Study Links Heart Health to Increased Fracture Risk in Postmenopausal Women
Postmenopausal women face a significantly increased risk of Osteoporosis and fractures due to declining estrogen levels. A new study from Tulane University highlights that Cardiovascular Disease risk may further elevate the likelihood of fractures, particularly in vulnerable populations.
Published in The Lancet Regional Health – Americas, the study analyzed data from over 21,000 women in the Women's Health Initiative. Researchers used the PREVENT Score to estimate participants’ 10-year cardiovascular risk, categorizing them into low, borderline, intermediate, and high-risk groups.
The findings revealed a strong association between heart health and fracture risk. Women in the high cardiovascular risk group had a 93% higher risk of hip fractures compared to those in the low-risk group, while those in the intermediate group had a 33% increased risk. The link was particularly pronounced in women under 65 and extended to fractures in major areas such as the spine, forearm, and shoulder.
According to lead researcher Rafeka Hossain, the magnitude of the association—especially for hip fractures—was striking. Women with higher cardiovascular risk also experienced fractures earlier, with hip fractures occurring around 15 years compared to nearly 20 years in lower-risk groups.
Several biological mechanisms may explain this connection, including chronic inflammation, oxidative stress, impaired calcium regulation, and reduced blood flow to bones due to atherosclerosis. Hormonal changes after menopause may further amplify both cardiovascular and bone health risks.
The findings suggest that cardiovascular risk assessments could help identify women who may benefit from early bone health screening. Experts emphasize that lifestyle strategies—such as regular exercise, a calcium- and vitamin D-rich diet, smoking cessation, and managing conditions like diabetes—can support both heart and bone health.
REFERENCE: Hossain, R., et al. (2026). The association between 10-year cardiovascular risk and fracture incidence in postmenopausal women: a prospective analysis from the Women’s Health Initiative. The Lancet Regional Health - Americas. DOI: 10.1016/j.lana.2026.101440. https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lanam/article/PIIS2667-193X(26)00070-0/fulltext
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