Prevalence of osteoporosis in middle anatolian population using calcaneal ultrasonography method

Background: There are a few studies on the prevalence of osteoporosis in Turkey. Most of such studies have been performed using classical diagnostic methods. Quantitative calcaneal ultrasonography is a contemporary procedure used in the diagnosis of osteoporosis. Objective: The aim of this study is to determine the prevalence of the osteoporosis and risk factors in middle Anatolian population aged more than 40, using quantitative calcaneal ultrasonography. Subjects and methods: The present study was carried out in rural and urban areas of primary health care units. Evaluation of skeletal status was based on calcaneal quantitative ultrasound measurement, carried out by the Sahara Clinical Bone Sonometer (Hologic Waltham, MA, USA). Results: There were 1437 individuals, 866 were females (60.3%) and 571 were mates (39.7%), aged in between 40 and 89 years. Standardized prevalence rates using Segi's population were found to be 14.0% in total, 17.1% in female and 9.2% in male. Osteoporosis prevalence increased with increasing ages. The highest prevalence value was determined in the individuals older than 70 years of age. Osteoporosis was more common among women compared to men. Osteoporosis prevalence increased in consistent with a decrease in the amount of milk, yoghurt and cheese consumption. Conclusion: Based on current study, it is concluded that osteoporosis is an important health problem. Requiring health education about life styles (activity and nutrition) to avoid and even control osteoporosis. (c) 2008 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.