Screening of Bone Mineral Density (BMD) among Elderly Population in Jordan

ABSTRACT

@#The health of the skeletal system is a vital issue in elderlies, hence, screening studies that investigate elders’ bone health and identify associated factors affecting bone density are of prime importance. This study purposed to evaluate bone mineral density levels and examine its relationship with socio-demographic and clinical data, and body measurements among Jordanian elderlies aged 60 years and over. Methods: A cross-sectional, descriptive correlational study was used using a systematic random sampling technique to recruit 155 participants in Amman governorate. A questionnaire consists of socio-demographic and clinical data, and a form measures bone mineral density and body mass index were used. Bone mineral density was measured using a CM200 light device, where the T-score used to assess the bone mineral density. The T -scores equal -1 < -2.5 indicate osteopenia, while < -2.5 reflect osteoporosis. Results: Of the 151 subjects with completed data, 34.5% osteopenia, and 9.2% osteoporosis. The lowest bone mineral density was observed among older participants, divorced, illiterate, experiencing arthritis disease, and had a family history of osteoporosis and fractures. Sex, marital status, number of cola glasses, and number of cigarettes had a negative correlation with T-score, conversely, arthritis and family history of fracture had a positive correlation. The number of cola glasses was the main predictor. Conclusion: Jordanian elderlies experienced low bone mineral density. Developing appropriate health promotion programs for changing unhealthy behaviors and screening purposes are needed to enhance the knowledge of bones health and reduce the risks of developing osteopenia or osteoporosis.