Effect of aging on calcaneus bone mineral density measured by p-DEXA method

Objective P-DEXA calcaneus bone mineral density measurement is widely accepted as a screening tool for osteoporosis but it's utility in evaluating determinants of bone mineral density (BMD) is inconclusive. We evaluated the utility of calcaneus p-DEXA scan in assessing the age-related changes in BMD. Methods This study was a hospital based cross-sectional study done in 106 females and 67 males. The age of study subjects ranged from 19-80 years. BMD of heel was measured by p-DEXA technique. T-score was estimated by plotting the BMD value against the subject's age. Osteoporosis was considered when t-score was less than-1. 6. Statistical tests applied were Pearson correlation, student's t, one-way ANOVA and x² tests. P value less than 0. 05 was considered significant. Results In females significant negative correlation was found between age and BMD (r =- 0. 3, P < 0. 01), mean BMD of above 50 years was significantly less compared to below 50 years age group (P <0. 005), there was significant difference in BMD between 10 years class intervals of age. In combined male and female group,frequency of osteoporosis was significantly higher in above 50 years age group compared to below 50 years (X = 11.506, P< 0. 001). Among the osteoporotic subjects aged above 50 years, 70. 83% were females. In males, association between age and BMD was insignificant. Conclusion Our data suggests that the p-DEXA measurement of calcaneus is an effective tool in evaluating age-related changes in bone mineral density in females.