The body composition analysis as a complementary tool in the screening of bone structural abnormalities

Purpose. The importance of early diagnosis, bone-healthy lifestyle and medication is required for remaining fracture free. Dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry and ultrasound densitometry are widely used to screen osteoporosis and other bone structural diseases. Bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA) devices can also estimate bone mineral content (BMC), but it has not been recommended for diagnostic purposes. The aim was to analyse whether low levels of the body composition' components and low bone mineral content can predict bone structural risk. Methods. Healthy pre- (n: 235, 18-45 years) and postmenopausal women (n: 137, 46-78 years) were enrolled to the analysis. BMC (kg) was estimated by InBody 720 analyser. Bone structure was measured by ultrasound DTU-One osteometer. Broadband ultrasound attenuation (BUA, dB/MHz), which estimates structural characteristics of trabecular bone, was used to assess bone structure. Body mass components were estimated by Drinkwater-Ross method. Results. Age changes of BMC, absolute and relative bone mass, muscle mass and bone structural parameters were analysed in women. BMC (r = 0.43, p < 0.01), absolute muscle mass (r = 0.41, p < 0.01) and absolute bone mass (r = 0.37, p < 0.01) were highly correlated (Pearson correlation) with BUA in premenopausal women. In postmenopausal women weaker relationship was identified between BUA and its hypothetical predictive factors. Conclusion. BMC and other studied body mass components alone do not provide enough information to identify osteoporosis, but can complete and widen the screening methods for bone structural diseases. Bone mineral density of healthy premenopausal women with low BMC, low bone mass and/or low muscle mass values should be measured regularly.