Changes in incidence and prevalence of vertebral fractures during 30 years.

The age and sex-specific incidence and prevalence of vertebral compression fractures were compared between the 1950s and 1980s in an urban population. In women over 80 years of age the incidence of symptomatic vertebral fractures has increased approximately four times; in elderly men even more. Mainly, low-energy trauma has caused these fractures. Thus, one clinical manifestation of osteoporosis--vertebral fracture--has increased in number, incidence, and prevalence over the last 30 years.