Rate of Bone Loss May Predict Mortality Among Older Adults

A study published in Bone found a low baseline bone mineral density (BMD) score and rapid bone loss observed over seven years independently conferred greater mortality risk among older adults, with men having a stronger association compared to women, reports Healio . Data from 339 adults at least 65 years old was analyzed, with baseline assessments performed between 2005 and 2006. DXA measurements at the lumbar spine, femoral neck, and total hip were evaluated, in addition to whole-body composition. Over an average 7.3-year follow-up, 74 men and 50 women died. Their BMD and T-scores were lower and the prevalence of osteoporosis was higher compared to survivors in both genders. No between-group differences for fracture rates were seen. Osteoporosis at all skeletal sites was linked to higher mortality risk for men and women, but the associations were stronger for BMD at the femoral neck and total hip versus the lumbar spine. Unadjusted analysis determined osteoporosis at the femoral neck was the strongest predictor of elevated mortality risk in both genders when compared with sex-matched participants in the normal BMD group.