2 Jan 2026 • Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) increased fracture risk in older adults, but not in those under 48 years, a new study found.

Among 5,519 participants, 44.5% had OSA, and 13% reported a prior physician-diagnosed fracture. Adults aged 59–91 years with OSA had more than three-fold higher odds of non-traumatic fractures (OR 3.68), with a similar pattern observed in those aged 48–58 years.

No significant association was seen in adults younger than 48 years. Notably, older adults with both OSA and poor sleep quality had an even higher risk of traumatic fractures compared with those with OSA alone (OR 1.64). The findings suggest fracture risk assessment and fall-prevention strategies should be considered in older patients with OSA, particularly when sleep quality is impaired.

Source: Spring Nature | Read full story