Abstract:

Objective: The cause of post-menopausal osteoporosis is estrogen deficiency. The source and quality of estrogen changes during the postmenopausal period. In this period the main estrogen in the circulation is estrone and is formed by the aromatization process of androgens peripherally. This process depends upon the body mass and age of the patients. Therefore the aim of this study was to determine the relationship between risk factors and reduction of bone density in Turkish postmenopausal women. Methods and Results:' A hundred postmenopausal women were evaluated; their average age was 50.44 and their body mass index (BMI) were calculated (kg/m2). Their age, the duration of menopause and the presence/absence of smoking were taken into consideration. Bone mineral density assessment was done with Lunar DPX. The data obtained was evaluated by multiple regression analysis and x2 test. Conclusion: We found that BMI varies directly and the duration of menopause indirectly with bone mineral density. The age of the patient on its own is barely related to bone mineral density whereas a history of smoking has no effect. K e y W o rd s : BMI and osteoporosis, Risk factors, Postmenopausal osteoporosis

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