Women who take certain ulcer drugs have a small increased risk of hip fractures in later life, latest research suggests.

A study published in the British medical journal found a link between long-term use of proton pump inhibitors and bone fractures in smokers. Protons are used to treat heartburn, reflux and ulcers.

The research tracked almost 80,000 nurses in the US aged between 30 to 55 years. They were followed up in later life to see how many of them had developed hip fractures after the menopause.

The researchers found out that smokers or ex-smokers taking proton pump inhibitors had 50% increased risk of hip fracture compared with women not taking medication.

Walakira Nyanzi

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