Bone Density Measurements and Biomarkers in Nutrition: DXA (Dual X-ray Absorptiometry), Osteopenia, and Osteoporosis

Abstract

The continuous interest of researchers for osteopenia, as well as osteoporosis, has resulted in an enrichment of existing knowledge with new scientific findings. The purpose of this chapter is to provide a concise and critical summary of published research literature concerning the epidemiology, etiology, bone physiology and pathophysiology, clinical manifestations and diagnosis, and prevention and management of these “insidious” diseases. While osteopenia is a clinical condition where bone mineral density is below normal, osteoporosis is a severe systemic skeletal disorder characterized by decreased bone mass and disruption of bone microarchitecture resulting in reduced endurance, fragility, and propensity to fracture. Osteopenia and osteoporosis are age related and manifest more often after menopause in women and later in men. Osteoporosis can be compared to other serious health problems, because bone fractures are associated with a high degree of morbidity, mortality, and disability. Fractures have usually impairment in activities of daily living and, not uncommonly, are the beginning of an institutionalized life. Clinically, the symptoms are bone deformation and diffused pain, especially in the spine, but osteoporosis and osteopenia could be asymptomatic. In the last 15 years, osteoporosis has become a major focus. The first step for an efficacious cure is the early diagnosis through measurement of bone density with DXA, before fracture risk becomes too high. Accordingly, prevention of bone fractures is of utmost importance at advanced age and is directly related to bone health. Optimization of bone condition must be the main concern throughout life for both men and women. Stepping-stone for this is the regulation of all the parameters that affect vitally the quality of life, mostly nutrition and exercise.KeywordsOsteoporosisOsteopeniaBone mineral densityBone massNutritionBiomarkersDXA