In which age group is the incidence of proximal femur fractures the highest?

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Proximal femur fractures, commonly known as hip fractures, occur most frequently in older adults due to a combination of factors such as decreased bone density, osteoporosis, and increased susceptibility to falls. As individuals age, their bones become more brittle, and they may experience a decline in balance and coordination, leading to a higher risk of falls.

In older adults, particularly those over the age of 65, the incidence of these fractures significantly increases, especially among those with existing health conditions. This demographic is more prone to injuries from simply tripping or falling, which can result in significant morbidity and mortality associated with hip fractures.

Young adults and middle-aged adults may sustain femur fractures, but these are typically due to high-energy trauma, such as motor vehicle accidents or sports injuries, rather than the low-energy falls commonly experienced by the elderly. Children, while they can fracture bones, typically do not suffer from proximal femur fractures at the same rate since their bones are more flexible and resilient, and the mechanisms of injury differ.

Therefore, the demographic most affected by proximal femur fractures is clearly the older adult population, reflecting the high incidence rates observed in clinical practice and studies.

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