A familial risk profile for osteoporosis

Abstract

Purpose: To describe genetic epidemiologic aspects of osteoporosis. Methods: 69 patients with osteoporosis were interviewed regarding personal and family histories of osteoporosis and related fractures. Family history information was obtained on 421 first degree and 748 second degree relatives. Results: 45% of cases reported a family history of osteoporosis. Familial cases were characterized neither by an earlier age of diagnosis nor by a greater degree of phenotypic severity. Empiric risks for osteoporosis were highest for mothers, 33%, and were 19% for sisters. Conclusion: These results provide an initial genetic epidemiologic profile for osteoporosis and information useful for genetic counseling.