Factors associated with bone mineral density in middle-aged men

Area of Science:

• Gerontology
• Bone Physiology
• Public Health

Background:

• Bone mineral density (BMD) is crucial for skeletal health, and its decline with age is a significant concern.
• Understanding risk factors for bone loss in middle-aged men is essential for preventative strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the association between anthropometric and lifestyle factors and BMD in white men aged 50-64.
• To identify key determinants of bone density and age-related bone loss in this demographic.

Main Methods:

• Cross-sectional population-based study of 218 ambulatory white men (aged 50-64) from the Rancho Bernardo cohort.
• BMD measurements at the lumbar spine, hip, ultradistal wrist, and midshaft radius using dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry and single-photon absorptiometry.
• Statistical analysis of correlations between BMD and factors including Body Mass Index (BMI), exercise, calcium intake, alcohol consumption, and smoking.

Main Results:

• Body Mass Index (BMI) showed significant correlation with BMD at all measured skeletal sites.
• Regular exercise was associated with significantly higher BMD at the spine and hip.
• Meeting the recommended daily allowance for calcium intake (> or = 800 g/day) correlated with higher BMD at the spine and wrist.
• Age-related decline in BMD was significant at the hip, wrist, and forearm, but not at the spine, even after adjusting for covariates.
• Osteopenia was prevalent, affecting 17.0% to 13.6% of men aged 55-64 at one or more skeletal sites.

Conclusions:

• Age-related bone loss occurs in middle-aged men, affecting peripheral sites more than the spine.
• Physical activity and adequate calcium intake are positively associated with better bone density in this population.
• Lifestyle modifications, including exercise and sufficient calcium, may play a role in mitigating bone loss in aging men.