Q FractureScore
This is a new prediction algorithm which estimates the 10 year absolute risk of osteoporotic fractures and hip fractures in men and women (1)
- specifically developed by doctors and academics for use in the UK (2)
- it extends the age range and also takes into account additional variables than compared to FRAX, such as falls, type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, use of HRT, menopausal symptoms, and use of tricyclic antidepressants
- does not require any laboratory testing or clinical measurements hence can be used in primary care
The factors used in QFracture score in men and women include
- age
- body mass index
- smoking status (non smoker, ex smoker, light, moderate, heavy)
- alcohol use
- rheumatoid arthritis
- cardiovascular disease
- type 2 diabetes
- asthma
- use of tricyclic antidepressants (at least 2 scripts in last 6 months)
- use of corticosteroids (at least 2 scripts in last 6 months)
- history of falls
- chronic liver disease
Additional factors are used in women:
- use of Hormone Replacement Therapy
- parental history of hip fracture/osteoporosis
- menopausal symptoms (vaginal dryness, hot sweats)
- gastrointestinal absorption (including Crohns disease, ulcerative colitis, celiac disease, steatorrhoea, blind loop syndrome)
- other endocrine disorders (thyrotoxicosis, primary or secondary hyperparathyroidism, Cushings syndrome) (2)
The web based risk calculator is available at the QFracture website.
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