Work Package 1 – Cross-sectional study of vertebral fracture prevalence and musculoskeletal health

Over 5000 adults are included in this community-based prevalence survey of vertebral fractures and health. The analysis of vertebral fracture prevalence in urban sites has been completed and the work presented at several recent conferences, including the International Osteoporosis Foundation (IOF) in Rome. The data show that vertebral fractures are prevalent across the three countries. Importantly, more than half of females and males have low bone mass, a risk factor for fracture. The analysis of rural data is underway.

                      The Gambia                                   Zimbabwe                                    South Africa