Falls and broken bones are costly health problems among the elderly, even more so when there is a growing older population aged over 65 years. In Australia about 1 million older people have at least one fall each year and about 40-60% will sustain major injuries including broken bones. Therefore there is a need to identify effective ways to reduce falls and improve outcomes of those who break a bone, especially of the hip.
Osteoporotic Fracture-Mortality Association And The Effect Of Anti-osteoporosis Treatment: A Multinational Study
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$84,800.00
Summary
Osteoporosis burden is due primarily to osteoporotic fractures resulting in economic and public health burden, increased disability, further fracture risk and more importantly early death. However, it remains under-treated although treatment reduces the number of fractures and may reduce early death. This study aims to understand which types of fractures result in early death and for which age groups and whether osteoporosis treatment does or does not reduce early death.
The Relationship Between Osteoporosis And Diabetes: Exploring The Bone-metabolism Interface
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$124,676.00
Summary
Osteoporosis and diabetes are two common conditions that affect many Australians. Diabetes patients have an increased risk of fractures, however the underlying mechanisms for this increased fracture risk is unknown. We hypothesise that there are changes in the bone remodelling as a result of increased insulin levels (as seen in type 2 diabetes) and will explore the factors that contribute to the increased fracture risk and examine how treatments can reduce fracture rates.
Osteoporosis is a common problem with increased premature mortality associated with hip and even more minor fractures. The cause of increased mortality is debated although osteoporosis treatment may decrease this risk. This study will be the first to examine survival of all subjects in NSW admitted for a fracture including cause for subsequent hospitalisation and treatment taken. This study will help define the cause of the mortality and the role of anti osteoporosis treatment on outcome.
The Effect Of Androgen Replacement Therapy On Bone And Muscle Health In Men With Chronic Kidney Disease
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$122,714.00
Summary
Low testosterone (T) levels are common in men with poor kidney function. Low T is known to cause reduced energy, decreased strength and low libido. Normal T is also needed for healthy bones and muscles. Men with kidney disease are already at risk of fractures, poor strength and quality of life. However, there are few studies that look at replacing T to men with kidney failure. We will investigate how low T affects bone and muscle and assess how giving T can benefit bone, muscle and function.
Musculoskeletal Strength In End Stage Kidney Disease
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$109,358.00
Summary
People with advanced kidney disease have poorer musculoskeletal health leading to reduced quality of life. This project will examine the associations of musculoskeletal health and neuropathy with immediate and long term clinical outcomes.