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Scanning Skeletal Remains for Bone Mineral Density in Forensic Contexts
Published on: January 29, 2018
Association between lean mass, fat mass, and bone mineral density: a meta-analysis
Lan T Ho-Pham1, Uyen D T Nguyen, Tuan V Nguyen
1Department of Internal Medicine (L.T.H.-P., U.D.T.N.), Pham Ngoc Thach University of Medicine, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam; Department of Rheumatology (L.T.H.-P.), People's Hospital 115, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam; Osteoporosis and Bone Biology Program (T.V.N.), Garvan Institute of Medical Research, Darlinghurst, Sydney, NSW 2010, Australia; Bone and Muscle Research Group (T.V.N.), Ton Duc Thang University, Ho Chin Minh City, Vietnam; and St Vincent's Clinical School (T.V.N.), and School of Public Health and Community Medicine (T.V.N.), UNSW Medicine, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW 2010, Australia.
Lean mass (LM) significantly impacts bone mineral density (BMD) more than fat mass (FM). This highlights the importance of physical activity for bone health and osteoporosis prevention.
Area of Science:
- Bone Metabolism and Body Composition
- Anthropometry and Skeletal Health
- Gerontology and Physical Activity
Background:
- Body weight is a key determinant of bone mineral density (BMD).
- The relative contributions of lean mass (LM) and fat mass (FM) to BMD remain debated.
- Understanding these relationships is crucial for bone health strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To quantitatively compare the association between LM, FM, and BMD.
- To determine which body composition component has a greater influence on BMD.
- To synthesize evidence using a meta-analytic approach.
Main Methods:
- A comprehensive literature search identified 44 relevant studies (1989-2013).
- Data from 20,226 individuals (men and women) were analyzed.
- Random-effects meta-analysis synthesized correlation coefficients for LM, FM, and BMD at various skeletal sites.
Main Results:
- Lean mass showed a stronger correlation with femoral neck BMD (FNBMD) (r=0.39) than fat mass (r=0.28).
- Lean mass had a greater effect on FNBMD in men compared to women.
- In premenopausal women, LM's effect on BMD exceeded FM's, while effects were comparable in postmenopausal women.
Conclusions:
- Lean mass exerts a more significant influence on bone mineral density than fat mass.
- These findings underscore the critical role of physical activity in preventing bone loss and osteoporosis.
- Promoting lean mass development is essential for maintaining skeletal integrity across populations.
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