267
Views
0
CrossRef citations to date
0
Altmetric
Articles

Difference in Bone Mineral Density Between Young Versus Midlife Women

, &
Pages 149-154 | Received 01 Sep 2015, Accepted 11 Nov 2015, Published online: 28 Apr 2016
 

Abstract

Background: Older age is a risk factor for low bone mineral density (BMD). Older women have been found to have lower BMD than younger women. Recent trends for decreased calcium consumption and physical activity may place younger women at greater risk than previously anticipated. Purpose: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of age on BMD in young (19.1 ± 0.4 years) versus midlife (46.3 ± 0.4 years) women. Methods: BMD was assessed with the Alara MetriScan. Results: Young women had lower BMD compared to midlife women (T score: − 1.18 ± 0.78 versus 0.25 ± 0.12; P <  .05), lower body weight (65.6 ± 1.6 kg versus 79.6 ± 1.9 kg, P <  .001), and lower body mass index (BMI; 23.7 ± 0.6 versus 29.3 ± 0.7 kg/m2, P <  .001). Discussion: Based on these data, younger women are at greater risk for loss of BMD and early onset osteoporosis than their older counterparts. Translation to Health Education Practice: Health Educators should teach that calcium and vitamin D supplementations are vital in maintaining bone mineral density throughout an individual's life span.

Acknowledgments

This study was supported by Dr. Ryan C. Moorman, DC, Care Medical in Valdosta, Georgia, and by Donna K. Sledge, Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College.

Reprints and Corporate Permissions

Please note: Selecting permissions does not provide access to the full text of the article, please see our help page How do I view content?

To request a reprint or corporate permissions for this article, please click on the relevant link below:

Academic Permissions

Please note: Selecting permissions does not provide access to the full text of the article, please see our help page How do I view content?

Obtain permissions instantly via Rightslink by clicking on the button below:

If you are unable to obtain permissions via Rightslink, please complete and submit this Permissions form. For more information, please visit our Permissions help page.