Changes in bone density measured by ultrasound of calcaneus in sedentary workers

Aim To determine a degree of change in the bones of workers who spend their full time job in sitting position and to find a correlation between smoking and changes in bone structure. Methods Examinees were 213 female workers who worked full time sedentary work in front of computer. Each worker was subjected to physical examination and ultrasonic osteodensitometry of calcaneus. Results The average age of patients was 45.4 years. Changes in bone density were found in 110 (51.64%) workers. Correlation between smoker and non-smoker groups was positive, but "r" was higher in smokers than in non-smokers. It is worrying that 10 out of 22 persons in the group up to 30 years of age have osteopenia. Conclusion Recommendation for regular annual control of bone density of the working group at risk regardless of age should be followed. Prescribing exercise for the working group at risk should be a significant part of preventive work in clinics of occupational medicine and sports.