Prevalence and Associated Risk Factors of Osteoporosis in Post-Menopausal Women in North India

ABSTRACT

Introduction: Osteoporosis is a global health problem contributing to increased functional limitations (mortality, morbidity, disability) and economic costs. The study aimed at assessing the prevalence and risk factors of osteoporosis in a sample of post-menopausal women from the states of Punjab, Haryana and Chandigarh in North India. Methods: A total of 250 post-menopausal women, ranging in age from 45 to 80 years, were selected by purposive sampling from three states in North India. Information was collected on height, weight, waist and hip circumferences, grip strength, dietary intake, physical activity, and exposure to sunlight. Bone mineral density (BMD) was evaluated by using Dual Energy X-ray Absorptiometry (DXA) at lumbar spine (L1-L4). Results: The prevalence of osteoporosis at lumbar spine (L1-L4) was found in 26.4% of the post-menopausal women. Osteoporotic women were significantly shorter (155.17 vs. 157.57,p