Age, gender, and site-specific variations in bone mineral density: a cross-sectional analysis of osteoporosis risk factors

Background: Osteoporosis is major health issue defined by decreased bone mineral density (BMD) and elevated fracture susceptibility. This study aimed to analyze age, gender, and site-specific variations in BMD and examine osteoporosis risk factors in an Indian population. Methods: This study was conducted with cross sectional design on 77 participants (54 females, 23 males) aged 20-83 years undergoing 3 Dimensional quantitative computed tomography (QCT) for BMD assessment at a tertiary care hospital in India. BMD measurements of the spine and bilateral hips were analyzed along with demographic and clinical data. Statistical analyses included t-tests, multivariate logistic regression, correlation analysis, and Chi-square tests. Results: The study revealed a high prevalence of osteoporosis (55.8%) and osteopenia (27.3%). Marked disparities in spine bone mineral density were noted between genders (p=0.023) and among age cohorts (p<0.0001). Age showed moderate negative relationship with spine BMD (r=-0.552, p<0.0001) and was recognized as a major predictor of osteoporosis (p<0.0001). Gender was not a significant predictor of osteoporosis after adjusting for age in our study. Conclusions: This study highlights the critical role of age in BMD reduction and osteoporosis risk, with older individuals showing higher rates of osteoporosis. While gender differences in BMD were observed, age emerged as the primary predictor of osteoporosis risk. These findings emphasize the importance of age-related assessments in osteoporosis screening and management strategies.