What percentage increase in risk for hip fracture is associated with consuming over 3 servings of alcohol daily?

Consuming over three servings of alcohol daily has been associated with a significant increase in the risk of hip fractures, specifically a 68% increase. This heightened risk can be attributed to several factors related to alcohol consumption. Alcohol can impair balance and coordination, potentially leading to falls, which are a common cause of hip fractures, especially in older adults. Additionally, excessive alcohol intake can negatively affect bone health by disrupting the balance of calcium and vitamin D metabolism and inhibiting the absorption of important nutrients that are essential for maintaining bone density.

Understanding the implications of alcohol consumption on bone health is critical for managing risk factors associated with osteoporosis and fractures, particularly in postmenopausal populations. This statistic is important for healthcare providers and patients alike, as it underscores the need to monitor and potentially limit alcohol intake to help maintain bone health and reduce fracture risk.