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Related Experiment Video

Updated: Jun 19, 2026

Scanning Skeletal Remains for Bone Mineral Density in Forensic Contexts

Scanning Skeletal Remains for Bone Mineral Density in Forensic Contexts

Published on: January 29, 2018

Uncovering the Relationship Between Skin Pigmentation and Bone Density.

Jay Cheeti¹, Milena Jovanovic¹, Catherine M Gordon¹

¹Section on Adolescent Bone and Body Composition, Eunice Kennedy Shriver, National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland.

|June 17, 2026

Summary

This review advocates for replacing race-based definitions with quantitative skin tone measures in bone mineral density (BMD) research. Understanding the interplay of genetics, vitamin D, and environmental factors is crucial for accurate BMD interpretation.

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Area of Science:

Biomedical research
Anthropometry
Bone health

Background:

Bone mineral density (BMD) interpretation historically relies on socially constructed race categories.
These race-based definitions may not accurately reflect genetic and environmental influences on BMD.
Existing BMD interpretation frameworks impact individuals of all racial backgrounds, including mixed-race individuals.

Purpose of the Study:

To review evidence supporting a shift from race-based to quantitative skin tone measures in BMD research.
To emphasize the importance of considering vitamin D status, genetics, and environmental factors in BMD assessment.
To advocate for a more empirical approach to understanding the relationship between skin tone and BMD.

Main Methods:

Literature review of studies examining race, skin pigmentation, vitamin D status, and BMD.
Analysis of the impact of genetic and environmental factors on skin tone and BMD.
Synthesis of evidence for a quantitative approach to skin tone assessment in relation to BMD.

Main Results:

Race is a significant but potentially flawed factor in current BMD interpretation.
Skin tone, influenced by vitamin D status and ultraviolet B (UVB) exposure, directly impacts BMD.
Genetics plays a crucial role in determining both skin tone and BMD.

Conclusions:

Moving away from race-based definitions towards quantitative skin tone measures is essential for accurate BMD interpretation.
A comprehensive approach integrating genetic underpinnings and environmental factors is necessary.
Future research should prioritize empirical measures of skin tone and its complex relationship with BMD and vitamin D status.