Takeaway
Fractures are more common among people with Parkinson disease (PD) versus control in the 5 years prior to PD diagnosis (prodromal period), and the association between fractures and PD strengthens as the diagnosis date approaches.
Why this matters
People with PD might experience unrecognized motor or non-motor symptoms in the years prior to diagnosis, leading to falls and fracture.
Awareness among physicians of the association between fracture and PD might facilitate earlier diagnosis and treatment of PD.