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Updated: May 25, 2026
07:56
Scanning Skeletal Remains for Bone Mineral Density in Forensic Contexts
Published on: January 29, 2018
High bone density and bone health.
Karin Sedó Sarkis1, Marcelo de Medeiros Pinheiro, Vera Lúcia Szejnfeld
1Nutrition Department, School of Public Health, Sao Paulo University, Brazil.
Summary
High bone density (HBD) is linked to factors like weight, ethnicity, and certain medications. Understanding these bone health influencers can aid in managing bone frailty and preventing osteoporosis.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Bone Biology
- Gerontology
Background:
- High bone density (HBD) lacks defined identification criteria, with limited research available.
- Bone health is influenced by a complex interplay of genetic, lifestyle, and medical factors.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review key aspects of high bone density (HBD).
- To discuss the physiological mechanisms underlying bone health.
- To identify risk and protective factors associated with bone mineral density.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies investigating high bone density.
- Analysis of physiological mechanisms contributing to bone health.
- Synthesis of data on factors influencing bone mineral density.
Main Results:
- Overweight, male gender, Black ethnicity, physical activity, calcium, and fluoride intake positively correlate with bone mineral density.
- Medications like statins and thiazide diuretics are associated with increased bone density.
- Certain conditions (obesity, diabetes, ER-positive cancers) and athletic status are linked to higher bone density, but not necessarily healthier bones.
Conclusions:
- Understanding risk and protective factors for HBD is crucial for managing bone frailty.
- Intervention strategies targeting non-modifiable risk factors may improve osteoporosis prevention and treatment.
- Further research is needed to establish clear criteria for identifying individuals with HBD.
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