Seasonal patterns of hip fracture incidence and mortality rates across age groups of older adults in Israel

Abstract

Purpose This study investigates the seasonal patterns of hip fracture occurrence and mortality rates in the elderly population of Israel. Methods In this retrospective study, we examined a random sample of 400 patients who underwent a hip fracture repair surgery at a 495-bed hospital in northern-central Israel during the years 2021–2022. Results Our findings reveal a heightened incidence of hip fractures during the spring (30.8%) in contrast to relatively consistent rates during other seasons (22-24.2%). Patients experiencing hip fractures in the spring were notably younger and had shorter hospital stays compared to those in other seasons. Furthermore, we identified seasonal variations in hip fracture incidence concerning gender, culture, and nationality. Over the 2-year follow-up period, 20% of patients had succumbed to mortality. The highest survival rate was associated with hip fractures sustained in the spring, while the lowest rates were observed in the autumn and winter. Conclusion While our study highlights significant seasonal variations in hip fracture occurrence and mortality rates among the elderly population in Israel, caution is warranted in interpreting the implications for post-fracture care and resource allocation. The observed heightened incidence of hip fractures during the spring, particularly among younger patients with shorter hospital stays, suggests the need for further investigation into potential risk factors and preventive measures specific to this season. Additionally, our identification of seasonal variations in hip fracture incidence across demographic factors underscores the importance of tailored interventions to address the diverse needs of different populations.