Abstract
Bone loss is a serious consequence of the aging process in humans and is observed in both modern and archaeological populations. A severe manifestation of bone loss, or osteopenia, can cause mechanical incompetence of the skeletal system and lead to osteoporosis. Osteoporosis is associated with an increase in morbidity and mortality and a decrease in the enjoyment of life. Age-associated bone loss affects all people, regardless of sex, socioeconomic status, and ethnic background. The manifestation of osteopenia and related fragility fractures, however, is highest in modern populations of European descent (Nordin, 1966; Solomon, 1968, 1979; Chalmers and Ho, 1970; Cohn et al., 1977; DeSimone et al, 1989; Luckey et al., 1989; Schnitzler, 1990; Nelson et al., 1991; Baron et al., 1994; Bell et al., 1995; Stini, 1995). Study of the inherent disparities in the incidence and prevalence of osteopenia and osteoporosis between past and modern populations, as well as among modern populations, may reveal biocultural and evolutionary factors related to bone loss and osteoporosis.
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