CDC Statistics on Osteoporosis Prevalence
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) utilizes data primarily from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) to report on osteoporosis prevalence in the United States. The 2017–2018 NHANES data focuses on adults aged 50 and over, providing statistics on osteoporosis and low bone mass. These reports reveal demographic differences, including variations by sex, age, and race/ethnicity, and show trends over the past decade. The following sections summarize the key findings.
Overall Prevalence in US Adults
Based on NHANES 2017–2018 data, the age-adjusted prevalence of osteoporosis in US adults aged 50 and over was 12.6%. This is determined by measuring bone mineral density (BMD) at the femur neck, lumbar spine, or both. The same survey found that 43.1% of this population had low bone mass (osteopenia). For more details, consult the {Link: CDC report https://www.cdc.gov/nchs/products/databriefs/db405.htm}.
Sex-Based Differences in Prevalence
CDC data from 2017-2018 shows a difference in osteoporosis prevalence between women and men. Additional statistics on sex-based differences and prevalence among those aged 65 and over can be found in the {Link: CDC report https://www.cdc.gov/nchs/products/databriefs/db405.htm}.
Trends Over Time
Between 2007–2008 and 2017–2018, the CDC observed a significant increase in osteoporosis prevalence for women aged 50 and over, while prevalence in men remained stable. More detailed trend information is available in the {Link: CDC report https://www.cdc.gov/nchs/products/databriefs/db405.htm}.
Racial and Ethnic Differences
NHANES 2017–2018 data also indicated variations in osteoporosis prevalence across racial and ethnic groups. For specific percentages by group, refer to the {Link: CDC report https://www.cdc.gov/nchs/products/databriefs/db405.htm}.
Comparison of Osteoporosis and Low Bone Mass Prevalence
| Demographic Group (Adults 50+) | Prevalence of Osteoporosis (2017–2018) | Prevalence of Low Bone Mass (2017–2018) |
|---|---|---|
| Total (Age-Adjusted) | 12.6% | 43.1% |
| Women (Age-Adjusted) | 19.6% | 51.5% |
| Men (Age-Adjusted) | 4.4% | 33.5% |
| Women 50-64 | 13.1% | 50.3% |
| Women 65+ | 27.1% | 52.9% |
| Men 50-64 | 3.3% | 27.5% |
| Men 65+ | 5.7% | 40.7% |
Conclusion
CDC NHANES data highlights the prevalence of osteoporosis in adults aged 50 and over, noting the higher risk for women and its increase with age. The data emphasizes the public health importance of bone health, particularly for high-risk groups. Key preventive measures include adequate calcium and vitamin D intake and exercise. Ongoing monitoring helps inform prevention strategies. For more information, consult the {Link: CDC report https://www.cdc.gov/nchs/products/databriefs/db405.htm}.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does the prevalence of osteoporosis differ by age according to the CDC?
The CDC's NHANES 2017–2018 data shows that osteoporosis prevalence increases with age. For detailed age-group statistics, see the {Link: CDC report https://www.cdc.gov/nchs/products/databriefs/db405.htm}.
How does low bone mass prevalence compare between men and women?
Based on 2017–2018 CDC data, low bone mass is more prevalent in women than in men. Specific prevalence percentages can be found in the {Link: CDC report https://www.cdc.gov/nchs/products/databriefs/db405.htm}.
Did osteoporosis prevalence change over the past decade?
Between 2007–2008 and 2017–2018, osteoporosis prevalence increased significantly for women aged 50 and over but remained stable for men. The {Link: CDC report https://www.cdc.gov/nchs/products/databriefs/db405.htm} provides these trend details.
What are the key risk factors for osteoporosis mentioned by the CDC?
The CDC lists factors like being female, older age, certain ethnicities, family history, small body size, low calcium and vitamin D, and inactivity as risk factors.
What is considered 'low bone mass' by the CDC?
Low bone mass (osteopenia) is defined by bone mineral density (BMD) T-scores based on WHO guidelines. Further details are available from the {Link: CDC report https://www.cdc.gov/nchs/products/databriefs/db405.htm}.
How many US adults aged 50+ have low bone mass?
According to 2017–2018 CDC data, 43.1% of US adults aged 50 and over had low bone mass. This statistic is available in the {Link: CDC report https://www.cdc.gov/nchs/products/databriefs/db405.htm}.
What are the consequences of osteoporosis, according to the CDC?
Osteoporosis increases fracture risk, which can lead to distress, loss of independence, reduced mobility, and higher mortality, particularly from hip fractures. This information is noted in the {Link: CDC report https://www.cdc.gov/nchs/products/databriefs/db405.htm}.
