Determinants of bone mineral density in post-menopause

Abstract

Post-menopause is the period of greatest bone loss and it is necessary to introduce preventative measures to mitigate its progression. Aim: compare the score of bone mineral density (BMD) and their risk factors and to determine those most influencing. Method: Cross-sectional, descriptive study of 62 postmenopausal women, healthy, average age 56.82 ± 4.02 years, evaluated for risk factors for osteoporosis and physical activity level. Absorption dual energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) evaluated lumbar spine and proximal femur. Groups, normal and reduced BMD were analyzed by Student's t test, chisquare and correlations. Results: Women with lower body mass index (BMI), older age and longer duration of menopause had lower BMD at the femur. Black race and absence of family history correlated with higher BMD. Conclusion: BMI, age, weight, family history of osteoporosis, race, and time since menopause were the main determinants of BMD in postmenopausal women.