Risk factors associated with low bone mineral density among women aged 40 years and above

ABSTRACT

Osteoporosis is a devastating disease that is increasing in prevalence as our population ages. Knowledge of the risk factors and early diagnosis of the disease can prevent and reduce disease complications, especially fractures. This study was designed to estimate the risk factors for low bone mineral density [BMD]; [osteopenia or osteoporosis] among women aged >/= 40 years. the study included one hundred and forty four [144] women aged >/= 40 years who met the inclusion criteria of the study. All participants were selected from the outpatient clinic of physiotherapy and rehabilitative medicine, Tanta University hospital. They completed a questionnaire on socio-demographic, reproductive and life-style risk factors for low [BMD]. Anthropometric measurements were undertaken and bone mineral density was measured by the ultra-sonography at the heel, and was expressed in T-score in this study the frequency of low bone mineral density [BMD] was 58.30 [36.15% were osteopenia and 22.2% osteoporosis]. Most of women with low BMD were of low educational level and housewives. The differences were statistically significant. Physical activities were more frequent among women with normal BMI] than those with low BMD but walking space was the only statistically significant. There was a negative correlation between bone mineral density versus advancing in age and increased postmenopausal years. There was a positive correlation between bone mineral density versus weight, body mass index, triceps skin fold and calcium intake. Body mass index for normal BMD women [30.17 +/- 2.50] was higher compared to that for osteopenic and osteoporotic women [29.04 +/- 2.85 and 27.07 +/- 1.32 respectively] the frequency of low bone mineral density [BMD] was 58 30 [36.15% were o'steopenia and 22.2% osteoporosis]. Risk factors associated with low bone mineral density were low educational level, nonwor king [house wife], advanced age, low body mass index, low triceps skin fold, less physical activity and low calcium intake. The study recommended improving the educational level of women and application of health education programs about the risk factors for osteoporosis, especially those which can be modified such as the nutritional status, calcium intake and physical activity