A new analysis gives clinicians information to help them more accurately predict future osteoporotic fracture risk in individual patients by combining information from both bone mineral density (BMD) measurements and imaging of the spine.

The analysis, presented at the National Osteoporosis Foundation's Sixth International Symposium on Osteoporosis, showed that at any given BMD, the information from the imaging of the spine was an independent predictor for future vertebral fractures.

"Low BMD is a surrogate for increased fracture risk, but doesn't give the whole story. Imaging the spine allows practitioners to see whether fractures of the spine have actually occurred," said Dr. John Krege, Medical Advisor for Eli Lilly and Company. "Incorporating both BMD and fracture status affords an opportunity to better predict future fracture risk and appropriately treat patients," he added.

This data is important, because women identified as having increased risk for fracture can be treated with lifestyle modifications, fall prevention strategies, medications, and other measures to reduce their risk for future fractures.