Time trends in osteoporosis prevalence and cross-sectional associations with parental family history: The Tromsø Study

Background Osteoporosis is a growing public health concern yet research on its epidemiology remains limited. This study aimed to examine trends in the prevalence of osteoporosis and the association between a parental family history of osteoporosis and osteoporosis. Methods Self-reported data from the population-based Tromsø Study, conducted in 1994–1995 (Tromsø4), 2001 (Tromsø5), and 2007–2008 (Tromsø6), were utilized in this cross-sectional study, with analyses performed using generalized estimating equations and logistic regression. Results The prevalences of osteoporosis increased over time in both women and men. Women had a higher prevalence of osteoporosis than men in both age groups (≤ 50 and > 50 years old). Among women, the highest prevalence of osteoporosis (9.9% [95% CI 9-10.8]) was found in Tromsø6 for the > 50 age group, while the lowest (0.1% [0.1–0.2]) was observed in the ≤ 50 age group in Tromsø4. Among men, the highest prevalence (1.2% [0.8–1.6]) was found in Tromsø5 for the > 50 age group, whereas the lowest (0.1% [0.05–0.2]) was observed in the ≤ 50 age group in Tromsø4. A parental history of osteoporosis independently increased the odds of osteoporosis with an odds ratio of 2.4 [95% CI 1.9–3.2]. The association remained independent, across both sexes and all levels of adjustment (age and osteoporosis-related factors). Conclusion Utilizing this knowledge to develop a more personalized approach may enhance osteoporosis prevention and control.