FRAX is a free questionnaire designed to calculate a person's risk of experiencing a hip fracture or a major osteoporotic fracture over the next ten years. It takes into account various factors such as age, sex, weight, height, and medical history. By analyzing these factors, FRAX helps to identify individuals who may be at higher risk for fractures due to osteoporosis or other conditions affecting bone density.
Understanding fracture risk is important for maintaining health, especially in older adults. Fractures can lead to significant health complications, including decreased mobility and increased risk of mortality. By assessing fracture risk with tools like FRAX, healthcare providers can better determine who might benefit from preventive measures or interventions to strengthen bones and reduce the likelihood of fractures.
Bones serve as the structural framework of the body, providing support and protection for vital organs. They are constantly undergoing a process of remodeling, where old bone is replaced with new bone tissue. Factors such as age, hormonal changes, and certain medical conditions can affect bone density, leading to weaker bones that are more prone to fractures. By estimating fracture risk, FRAX helps individuals understand the importance of bone health and the need to monitor and manage it.
FRAX is widely used in clinical settings and can be easily accessed online. It is an important part of osteoporosis management and can guide discussions between patients and healthcare providers about bone health and fracture prevention strategies.
