RESUMEN
Hip fracture, the most serious complication of osteoporosis, imposes a heavy financial burden for treatment on any health system, and accounts for more than 20% of orthopedic beds in many countries. The aim of this study was to determine the incidence rate of hip fracture in Zanjan, Iran over a period of two years, [March 21, 2003 to March 21, 2005]. In this study, we assessed all cases discharged with final diagnosis of hip fracture [Intertrochanteric, Subtrochanteric, Trochanteric and neck fracture] in Zanjan Shafiyeh hospital, which is the only volunteer center for hip fracture in Zanjan province. Of 490 cases of hip fractures, admitted in the last two years, 337 cases were attributable to osteoporosis; 57.9% of fractures were in males and 42.1% were in females. Most of the cases were urban residents. The highest incidence rate was observed in the group 70-79 year age group, mean age being 71.24 years, [71.34 -males and 71.09 yr- females]. Causes of 58.8% of fractures were simple falls or falls from stairs; 27% of fractures occurred in winter but there was no significant difference between seasons. The average time of hospitalization was 8.12 days. In the osteoporotic fracture group, hospital mortality rates were 4.45%. In most reports worldwide, hip fracture is more prevalent in women, whereas in our study, hip fracture in all age groups was more prevalent in men. Since 50% of fractures occurred before the age of 70, early interventions for prevention of osteoporosis, particularly in men are necessary. Prevalence of osteoporotic fracture in men needs further study