SUN-PP238: Poor Diet and Physical Inactivity as Risk Factors for the Development of Osteopenia in Portuguese Female Adults

Abstract

Rationale: Modifiable factors (lifestyle, dietary intake, smoking) and non-modifiable factors (gender, race) may cause changes in bone mass by decreasing bone mineral density and increasing the risk of bone fractures. Therefore, the aim of this study was to evaluate the bone mineral density in adults, as well as their eating habits, including in calcium-rich food and other risk factors, such as smoking habits and caffeine and alcohol consumption. Methods: Eighty-seven Caucasian subjects (55 female and 32 male) who studied or worked at a Portuguese university aged from 32 years old to 60 years old were evaluated. A selfadministered questionnaire was applied for data collection, as follows: socio-demographic data; anthropometric data; history of bone fractures; eating habits, including calciumrich food; medication; physical activity; smoking habits; and alcohol consumption. Calcaneal broadband attenuation (BUA), speed of sound, and QUS index were obtained by using a Hologic Sahara Clinical Bone Sonometer. Written informed consent was obtained from all participants. Descriptive and inferential statistics were performed using SPSS, version 20. Results: Most participants (55%) presented osteopenia, 7% suffered from osteoporosis and 33% suffered at least one bone fracture. Participants’ diet was monotonous and inadequate in calcium-rich food (p 0.05) was found among gender groups in terms of smoking habits and caffeine and alcohol consumption. However, two risk factors were observed for the development of osteopenia, such as physical inactivity and a poor diet in calcium (p < 0.01); females were at a greater risk for suffer from osteopenia than males (p < 0.05). Conclusion: The adoption of a healthy diet and an active lifestyle, including physical exercise of impact might be helpful to prevent bone mineral density loss. Longitudinal studies are needed.