RESUMEN
OBJECTIVE: To find the reference data for age-specific normal bone mineral density in a Thai female population. STUDY DESIGN: Cross-sectional, Descriptive study. MATERIAL AND METHOD: 1773 Thai women aged between 11-80 years were recruited, using multistage cluster sampling and stratifying from six represented provinces in the country, each strata was randomly selected. After recruiting, the women were interviewed by well-trained personnel using structured questionnaires. Bone mineral density of the lumbar spine 1-4 and nondominant hip were measured by Dual Energy Photon Absorptiometer. The scientists, X-rays technician were trained and standardized inter and intra observers variation. Quality control of examination was measured periodically. Every BMD outcome was re-examined by a specialist. RESULTS: The peak bone mineral density of both spines and hips was between the age of 30 to 34 years old. Mean Value for spine and femoral neck was 0.957 and 0.814 g/cm2 respectively. The BMD of spine and hip was significantly decreased after the age of 35 and the loss was accelerated at age 50. Osteoporosis for spine and femoral neck is considered when BMD are below 0.682 and 0.569 g/cm2 respectively. CONCLUSION: The results are important data for public health policy, by maximizing bone mass during skeletal growth before menopause and minimizing bone loss throughout life as well as for detection of important risk factors.