Bone Mineral Density at Distal Forearm in Women in Mae Chaem District, Chiang Mai Province, Thailand: A Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

Background: Osteoporosis is a common health problem worldwide and has a high impact on quality of life and economic losses. However, having an early risk assessment can resolve the problem. Objective: To investigate the prevalence of bone mineral density (BMD) and osteoporosis in the distal forearm among Thai women in Mae Chaem District, Chiang Mai Province, Thailand. Methods: The subjects were 456 women, aged between 24-88 years who inhabit Mae Chaem District, Chiang Mai Province, Thailand. The demographic characteristics data was obtained by using self-administered questionnaires that determine common risk factors for osteoporosis. The BMD of the non-dominant distal forearm of all subjects was determined according to standard protocol by use of peripheral dual energy X-ray absorptiometry (pDEXA) scanning. Results: The BMD decreased as a function of age (Pearson's r = -0.645) while the BMD increased as a function of weight (Pearson's r = 0.389), and height (Pearson's r = 0.267). The percentage of prevalence is increased as a function of age-group in osteoporosis group, while it is decreased in that of normal bone density. In addition, the BMD at distal forearm decreased when the duration of menopause increased (Pearson's r = -0.455) Conclusion: The prevalence of osteoporosis was found in the women who reside in Mae Chaem District, Chiang Mai Province, Thailand. The current study will provide the information to guide the strategies for preventing osteoporosis in the population.