"An increased hip fracture risk for the pseudoexposure in the co-twin analyses, particularly in identical twins, is an indication that genes predispose to the development of CVD and fractures," the researchers wrote.

"Clinicians should be aware of the considerably increased rate of hip fracture in both sexes, especially after a recent hospitalization for CVD," the authors concluded. "Genetic predisposition is probably a major determinant of the excess fracture rate."

SOURCE:  Journal of the American Medical Association, (JAMA) October 21, 2009

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