Qfracture score

Last reviewed 07/2021

Q FractureScore

This is a new prediction algorithm which estimates the 10 year absolute risk of osteoporotic fractures and hip fractures in men and women (1)

  • specifically developed by doctors and academics for use in the UK (2)
  • it extends the age range and also takes into account additional variables than compared to FRAX, such as falls, type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, use of HRT, menopausal symptoms, and use of tricyclic antidepressants
  • does not require any laboratory testing or clinical measurements hence can be used in primary care

The factors used in QFracture score in men and women include

  • age
  • body mass index
  • smoking status (non smoker, ex smoker, light, moderate, heavy)
  • alcohol use
  • rheumatoid arthritis
  • cardiovascular disease
  • type 2 diabetes
  • asthma
  • use of tricyclic antidepressants (at least 2 scripts in last 6 months)
  • use of corticosteroids (at least 2 scripts in last 6 months)
  • history of falls
  • chronic liver disease

Additional factors are used in women:

  • use of Hormone Replacement Therapy
  • parental history of hip fracture/osteoporosis
  • menopausal symptoms (vaginal dryness, hot sweats)
  • gastrointestinal absorption (including Crohns disease, ulcerative colitis, celiac disease, steatorrhoea, blind loop syndrome)
  • other endocrine disorders (thyrotoxicosis, primary or secondary hyperparathyroidism, Cushings syndrome) (2)

The web based risk calculator is available at the QFracture website.

Reference: