Lifelong Risk Factors for Osteoporosis and Fractures in Elderly Women with Low Body Mass Index
April 12, 2011 by Dr. Marc Darrow, M.D.
Filed under Aging
Researchers writing in the medical journal Bone, evaluated the association between lifelong lifestyle factors and bone density, falls and postmenopausal fractures in elderly women with low body mass index.
Korpelainen R, Korpelainen J, Heikkinen J, Vaananen K, Keinanen-Kiukaanniemi S. Lifelong risk factors for osteoporosis and fractures in elderly women with low body mass index-A population-based study. Bone. 2006 Aug;39(2):385-91.
From the abstract:
Low body weight is associated with an increased risk for osteoporosis and fractures, but the contribution of other lifestyle related factors have not been previously studied within lean elderly women. The present study evaluated the association between lifelong lifestyle factors and bone density, falls and postmenopausal fractures in elderly women with low body mass index (BMI).
Poor functional ability and symptoms of depression were associated with recent falling. In elderly women with low BMI, lifelong physical activity may protect from fractures, while low calcaneum bone mass and living unpartnered appear to be associated with an increased risk for fractures.
Poor functional ability and presence of depression may be associated with risk of falling. Type 2 diabetes may modify the risk of low bone mass and low-trauma postmenopausal fractures. Albeit that the results of this study need to be confirmed in prospective follow-up studies, multifactorial program with the emphasis on physical and social activation in the primary care setting for preventing falls and fractures in lean elderly women is recommended.
