Risk factors for osteoporosis in South Asian and Caucasian postmenopausal women

Abstract

There is evidence to show that the risk of osteoporosis is greater for South Asian females compared to Caucasian females. This is due to differences in bone mineral density and other risk factors which contribute to this condition such as calcium and vitamin D intake and exercise levels. The present study set out to examine such differences between these two communities. Postmenopausal females were studied as the risk of osteoporosis is greater after the menopause. Bone mineral density was assessed using the Achilles Insight heel scanner, dietary intake was assessed using a 24 hour recall and lifestyle factors were assessed using a questionnaire. Total participants - 282 Caucasian and 41 South Asian women. Postmenopausal participants – 144 Caucasian and 7 South Asian women. No significant differences were found in bone mineral density between Caucasian and South Asian females, however differences in other risk factors for osteoporosis such as calcium and vitamin D intake were found between the two communities. There were also significant differences in bone mineral density between pre and postmenopausal participants (P<0.001). Although no differences in bone mineral density were found between the two communities, there were significant differences between the pre and postmenopausal participants. This shows how important it is to raise awareness of this public health issue and target other factors associated with osteoporosis in already high risk individuals.