Leisure physical activity and the risk of fracture in men
2007

Exercise Reduces the Risk of Fractures in Men

Sample size: 2205 publication Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Harri Sievänen, Pekka Kannus

Primary Institution: UKK Institute, Tampere, Finland

Hypothesis

Does regular physical activity reduce the risk of fragility fractures in men?

Conclusion

Regular exercise can significantly lower the risk of hip fractures in older men.

Supporting Evidence

  • Regular exercise is associated with improved bone rigidity and neuromuscular performance.
  • 8.4% of men in the high activity group suffered hip fractures compared to 20.5% in the low activity group.
  • One-third of all hip fractures could be avoided with adequate physical activity.

Takeaway

If men exercise regularly, they are less likely to break their bones when they fall.

Methodology

The study followed a cohort of 2,205 men for 35 years and classified their physical activity levels.

Potential Biases

Potential biases include self-reported physical activity levels and variations in adherence to exercise.

Limitations

The study's observational nature limits the ability to establish causation.

Participant Demographics

The study involved older men.

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1371/journal.pmed.0040199

Want to read the original?

Access the complete publication on the publisher's website

View Original Publication