ABSTRACT
OBJECTIVE: This study is designed to evaluate the relationship between bone mineral density (BMD) and life-style factors such as physical activity, smoking, and alcohol consumption and to offer the information for the modification of life-style. METHOD: Eight hundred and sixty nine inhabitants (354 males and 515 females whose age was 55.0+/-13.9 years- old) were participated in this study. BMD was measured in the right calcaneus by quantitative ultrasound (Mark 6000(R), Medison). Amount of physical activity, smoking, and alcohol consumption were got through the closely designed interview. Independent sample T-test and simple regression were used for data analysis. RESULTS: Amount of physical activities were 2656.8+/-732.3 cal/day, smokers were 329 persons (37.9% of inhabitants), and amount of alcohol consumption were 26.2+/-53.3 g/day. Increasing the amount of physical activity, BMD showed significantly higher T-score (p<0.01). Increasing the amount of alcohol consumption, BMD showed significantly lower T-score (p<0.01). BMD in smokers appeared significantly lower T-score than non-smokers (p<0.01). CONCLUSION: Life-style factors significantly effect on bone mineral density. Therefore prevention of osteoporosis through maintenance or augmentation of BMD needs proper physical activity, cessation of smoking, and no heavy drinking.