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Updated: Jul 2, 2026
07:56
Scanning Skeletal Remains for Bone Mineral Density in Forensic Contexts
Published on: January 29, 2018
Haemoglobin levels are associated with bone mineral density in the elderly: a population-based study
Alice Laudisio1, Emanuele Marzetti, Francesco Pagano
1Department of Gerontology and Geriatrics, Catholic University of Medicine, L.go F. Vito, 1-00168 Rome, Italy. postalice@tiscali.it
Clinical Rheumatology
|September 4, 2008
Summary
Low hemoglobin levels are linked to lower bone mineral density (BMD) in older adults. Specific hemoglobin cutoffs may help identify individuals with osteoporosis, aiding clinical screening effectiveness.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Biochemistry
- Orthopedics
Background:
- Hypoxemia is a known risk factor for reduced bone mineral density (BMD).
- Previous research in animal and human models suggests a link between low oxygen levels and decreased bone health.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the association between hemoglobin levels and ultrasound-derived BMD parameters.
- To identify hemoglobin cutoff levels for predicting osteoporosis in older adults.
Main Methods:
- Cross-sectional study of 358 individuals aged 75+ in Tuscany, Italy.
- Utilized ultrasound-derived (UD) T score, Z score, and stiffness index.
- Multivariable linear regression and linear discriminant analysis were employed.
Main Results:
- Hemoglobin levels showed a significant association with UD T score (p=0.030), Z score (p=0.045), and stiffness index (p=0.007).
- Hemoglobin levels below 140 g/L in men and 130 g/L in women effectively predicted osteoporosis.
- Hemoglobin is an independent predictor of UD-BMD parameters.
Conclusions:
- Hemoglobin levels are independently associated with key ultrasound-derived bone mineral density parameters.
- Specific hemoglobin thresholds can aid in identifying older adults at higher risk for osteoporosis.
- These findings suggest potential clinical utility for hemoglobin screening in osteoporosis detection.
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