People over the age of 50 who have severe mental illness are more likely than the general population to experience fragility fractures but may be less likely to get a diagnosis for osteoporosis, finds a new study led by UCL researchers.
Fragility fractures are broken bones that occur after a minor fall or impact that wouldn’t usually cause a fracture. This kind of ailment often occurs in people with osteoporosis, a disease that weakens the bones and makes them more likely to break.
The study, published in the British Journal of General Practice, analysed the GP records of over 440,000 people over the age of 50 between 2000 and 2018, to examine the diagnosis of osteoporosis and fragility fractures in people who have been previously diagnosed with severe mental illness, compared to the general population.
Severe mental illness (SMI) refers to mental health problems such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder or other forms of psychosis that are often so debilitating that they have a great impact on a person’s ability to work and function on a daily basis.
A recent study highlights a concerning link between severe mental illness (SMI) and a higher risk of fragility fractures in older adults. The research suggests that conditions like schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and major depression may contribute to decreased bone health, likely due to a combination of factors including long-term medication use, reduced physical activity, poor nutrition, and heightened inflammation. Individuals with SMI often face additional lifestyle and health challenges that can lead to compromised bone density, making them more vulnerable to fractures as they age. These fractures can significantly impact mobility, independence, and overall quality of life, particularly among seniors.
The findings stress the need for comprehensive care strategies for older adults with mental health conditions, integrating physical health and bone health assessments into routine mental health care. By addressing the unique health risks faced by those with severe mental illness, healthcare providers can support better long-term outcomes and help mitigate some of the physical impacts associated with these conditions.
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Severe Mental Illness Linked to Higher Risk of Fragility Fractures in Older Adults https://t.co/L4t8niw5xF #rehabnearme 855-339-1112
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