Factors affecting bone density of post-menopausal women (A case study in Malaysia)
by
Yap Bee Wah
University Technology MARA
Coauthors: Karuthan Chinna (University Technology MARA)

Osteoporosis is a disease characterized by low bone mass and structural deterioration of bone tissue, leading to bone fragility and an increased susceptibility to fractures of the hip, spine and wrist. Although women are more likely than men to develop the disease, men also suffer from osteoporosis. It has been reported that the women with the highest risk factors for osteoporosis are usually white or Asian and are small and thin. Osteoporosis is becoming a major health problem in Asia. A bone mass measurement is the only way to detect if a person has osteoporosis. This paper presents the findings on bone density measurements of post-menopausal women in Malaysia. Bone mineral density of the hip, lumbar spine and total body were measured using Lunar DEXA densitometer. Besides measurements on bone mineral density of the hip, spine and total body, data were collected on family history of fractures, physical activity and dietary intake. A multivariate approach involving multiple regression, multiple analysis of variance and factor analysis was used to determine the critical factors that have significant effects on bone mass. The significant factors were then examined to determine their influence on each density sites (hip, spine and total body).

Key words: Bone density, Osteoporosis, Multivariate statistical methods.

Date received: March 26, 2002