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Osteoporosis in the Norwegian moose
R Bjorå1, J A Falch, H Staaland
1Tokerud Skole, Oslo, Norway. bjora@skolepost.ls.no
Bone
|July 27, 2001
Summary
Wild moose in southern Norway exhibit lower bone density and strength, linked to increased lead levels in their bones. This study investigated bone health and metal concentrations in moose from affected and control regions.
Area of Science:
- Wildlife toxicology and bone health
- Environmental monitoring of heavy metals
- Mammalian bone biomechanics
Background:
- Increased fracture frequency reported in wild moose in southern Norway.
- Potential environmental factors impacting moose bone health require investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare bone mass, mechanical strength, and metal levels in moose metacarpal bones.
- To assess differences between moose from southern Norway (Aust-Agder County) and control areas.
Main Methods:
- Bone mineral density (BMD) measured using dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA).
- Biomechanical strength assessed via three-point bending tests.
- Metal concentrations determined using atomic absorption spectrophotometry (GF-AAS) and ICP-AAS.
Main Results:
- Moose from southern Norway showed significantly lower proximal BMD (1.58 g/cm²) compared to control areas (1.88 g/cm²).
- Metacarpal bone bending strength was significantly reduced in southern moose (9378 N) versus controls (16,707 N).
- Elevated lead concentrations (1.5 mg/kg) were found in southern moose bones compared to controls (0.4 mg/kg).
Conclusions:
- Moose in southern Norway exhibit compromised bone health, characterized by lower bone mass and reduced mechanical strength.
- Increased bone lead concentration is identified as a significant factor potentially contributing to bone abnormalities in this population.