Type 2 Diabetes Bone Fracture Risk Study

A new study published in Diabetes Care challenges the assumption that faster bone loss explains the increased fracture risk in older adults with type 2 diabetes. Using advanced imaging on Framingham Heart Study participants, researchers found that changes in cortical and trabecular bone density, microarchitecture, and strength were similar between those with and without type 2 diabetes over time. This suggests that the higher fracture risk in diabetes may stem from other factors such as altered bone material quality, increased fall risk due to neuropathy or vision problems, or other diabetes-related complications. The study was led by Alyssa B. Dufour and Elizabeth J. Samelson, with collaborators from Hebrew SeniorLife, Harvard Medical School, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston University, University of Calgary, and Cardiovascular Engineering, Inc. Funding was provided by the United States — National Institutes of Health, including the United States — National Institute on Aging, the United States — National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases, and the United States — National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute.