Features of osteoporosis in male patients with bronchiectasis, a cross-sectional study

Osteoporosis increases the burden and disease related adverse events of comorbidities in some chronic disease. The relationships between osteoporosis and bronchiectasis are not fully understood. This cross-sectional study explores the features of osteoporosis in male patients with bronchiectasis.

From January 2017 to December 2019, male patients (age >50 years) with stable bronchiectasis were included, as were normal subjects. Data on demographic characteristics and clinical features were collected.

Totally, 108 male patients with bronchiectasis and 56 controls were analyzed. Osteoporosis was observed in 31.5% (34/108) of patients with bronchiectasis and 17.9% (10/56) of controls (P=0.001). The T-score negatively correlated with age (R=-0.235, P=0.014) and bronchiectasis severity index score (BSI; R=-0.336, P<0.001). BSI score ≥9 was a major factor associated with osteoporosis [odd ratio (OR) =4.52; 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.57-12.96; P=0.005]. Other factors associated with osteoporosis included body-mass index (BMI) <18.5 kg/m² (OR =3.44; 95% CI: 1.13-10.46; P=0.030), age ≥65 years (OR =2.87; 95% CI: 1.01-7.55; P=0.033), and a smoking history (OR =2.78; 95% CI: 1.04-7.47; P=0.042).

The prevalence of osteoporosis was higher in male bronchiectasis patients than that in controls. Factors including age, BMI, smoking history, and BSI were associated with osteoporosis. Early diagnosis and treatment might be of great value in prevention and management of osteoporosis in patients with bronchiectasis.