ASYMPTOMATIC LOW BONE-MINERAL DENSITY IN OTHERWISE HEALTHY PEOPLE - 4YEAR FOLLOW-UP

Aim. To determine the effect of screening a normal population for low bone density on lifestyle, subsequent bone density and fracture risk. Method. A cross sectional study of 726 subjects screened for low bone density identified 60 with bone density greater than one standard devi ation below an age and sex matched mean. Those who accepted further as sessment were followed clinically and with repeat bone densitometry fo r up to four years. Those declining assessment were contacted four yea rs later and questioned about lifestyle changes and fractures. They we re offered repeat bone densitometry. Results. Twenty five subjects acc epted intervention and were advised on lifestyle modification and trea ted with calcium supplements (18) calcitriol (5) or oestrogen (1). 22 of the 35 subjects who initially declined intervention volunteered to have their bone density repeated. Bone density increased in the group accepting intervention compared to the 22 subjects in the group who in itially declined assessment (p<0.05). Several laboratory investigation s had a low yield. Lifestyle modification in the group declining asses sment did not significantly affect subsequent bone density. Fractures occurred infrequently in both groups. Conclusion. After screening the normal population for low bone density, significant improvements in bo ne density can be achieved in patients accepting further intervention.