FRAX Fracture Risk Calculator
The FRAX Fracture Risk Calculator estimates your 10-year probability of major osteoporotic fracture and hip fracture based on age, BMI, and clinical risk factors. This tool helps adults and healthcare providers assess bone health risks to make informed treatment decisions. Whether you are monitoring bone density, evaluating steroid side effects, or planning osteoporosis prevention, this calculator provides a clear risk probability.
How 10-Year Fracture Probability Is Calculated
10-year fracture probability represents the likelihood of breaking a major bone, such as the spine, hip, or wrist, within the next decade. This calculation utilizes the WHO FRAX algorithm, a validated tool that integrates clinical risk factors with age and sex to determine risk.
Calculation Steps
- Determine Body Mass Index (BMI) using your weight and height.
- Input specific clinical risk factors like previous fractures or smoking status.
- Adjust the base risk using weighted coefficients derived from large population studies.
- Combine these values to generate a final percentage for major osteoporotic and hip fractures.
This method provides a standardized assessment that helps identify who might benefit from bone-strengthening treatments.
What Your 10-Year Fracture Probability Means
Your result is a percentage that quantifies your specific risk of suffering a bone break in the next ten years. Understanding this number helps you and your doctor decide if lifestyle changes or medication are necessary to protect your bones.
| Risk Category | 10-Year Major Fracture Risk | 10-Year Hip Fracture Risk | Action |
|---|---|---|---|
| Low Risk | Less than 10% | Less than 3% | Focus on diet, exercise, and maintaining bone density. |
| High Risk | Greater than 20% | Greater than 3% | Consult a doctor about medication to prevent fractures. |
Important: Including your femoral neck BMD (bone mineral density) significantly improves the accuracy of your risk assessment if available.
This calculator is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
Because bone health changes over time, you should re-assess your fracture risk every 1 to 2 years or whenever your health status changes significantly.