Osteoporotic fractures remain a serious public health concern for elderly residents in rural China, where healthcare access is often limited. A recent cross-sectional study sheds light on the scale of the problem and the factors influencing post-fracture care.
From March 2022 to December 2024, researchers surveyed 3,600 individuals aged 60 and above across five provinces—Hubei, Shandong, Henan, Yunnan, and Gansu. Participants were recruited through community health centers and had confirmed histories of osteoporosis or related fractures. A 33-item questionnaire assessed demographics, family support, health conditions, healthcare access, and knowledge of rural health policies.
The findings revealed that 58.7% of participants had suffered osteoporotic fractures, with half of them reporting a noticeable impact on their daily lives. Recent falls were a key factor, present in 93.2% of those affected.
Socioeconomic factors played a major role in determining access to care. Insured individuals were over twice as likely to receive help after a fracture (OR 2.18), while homeowners had even higher odds (OR 2.65). By contrast, low awareness of healthcare policies — measured by fewer than three correct answers on a six-point index — was strongly associated with reduced likelihood of receiving assistance (OR 0.22).
Medical interventions appeared to improve care outcomes. Those taking supplements or receiving treatment for osteoporosis were significantly more likely to get help post-fracture (ORs 5.07 and 4.51, respectively). However, reliance on family support came with trade-offs: when children stepped in to help, access to formal care decreased (OR 0.79).
Notably, 90.1% of respondents expressed a high need for government support, underlining persistent care gaps.
The study concludes that osteoporotic fractures among the rural elderly are both common and consequential. Addressing this challenge will require better insurance coverage, improved health education, and expanded access to medical care to reduce inequities and improve recovery outcomes.
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