Abstract
Introduction: A reliable procedure for identifying persons at risk for osteoporosis and subsequent fracture is needed so that preventive measures may be initiated. Material and Methods: Participants included 7,532 women, ages 20 and older, surveyed in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey III (NHANES, 1988-1994). Influences of race, body composition, exercise, alcohol intake, smoking status, as well as the effect of nutritional intake of calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, iron, zinc, sodium, and potassium on bone mineral density (BMD) were assessed. Results: Advancing age, low body weight, low exercise expenditure, and smoking were significant predictors for low BMD. Nutritional variables examined were not significant in the predictive models. Conclusions: The absence of calcium from the predictive models indicates the need for re-evaluation of the current recommended intake levels of this nutrient. A greater emphasis on factors such as exercise and achieving adequate weight is recommended. Discussion: Providing women with the knowledge of their risk for low BMD may influence lifestyle behaviors, which may ultimately result in the prevention of bone injury. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]