Risk factors for osteoporosis in Alaska Native women: a cross-sectional survey.
OBJECTIVE
To estimate the prevalence of risk factors for osteoporosis in Alaska Native (AN) women and to assess the feasibility of portable bone density measurement in rural Alaska.


METHODS
We conducted a cross-sectional survey of a convenience sample of 452 patients from 17 clinics in Alaska. We interviewed subjects regarding risk factors for osteoporosis and measured calcaneal bone density by ultrasound.


RESULTS
Of the 452 women, 316 (70%) were Alaska Natives. Risk factors for osteoporosis were common among study participants. Total dietary calcium intake was low (mean = 306 mg/day). Current smokers [Odds Ratio (OR) = 3.9, 95% Confidence Interval (95% C.I.) 1.8, 8.4], former smokers (OR = 2.8, 95% C.I. 1.3, 6.2) and chronic users of oral steroids (OR = 4.7, 95% C.I. 1.8, 12.0) were at increased risk for low bone density.


CONCLUSIONS
Reduction of cigarette smoking, increase in dietary calcium, and reduction of oral steroid use would likely decrease the prevalence of osteoporosis in AN women. A comprehensive prevention program including bone density screening is warranted in rural Alaska.
Filner
Joshua J
JJ
School of Medicine, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, USA.
Krohn
Kelly D
KD
Lapidus
Jodi A
JA
Becker
Thomas M
TM
D015502:Absorptiometry, Photon; D000328:Adult; D000413:Alaska / Q000453:epidemiology; D016009:Chi-Square Distribution; D003430:Cross-Sectional Studies; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D004930:Inuit / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D016015:Logistic Models; D008875:Middle Aged; D010024:Osteoporosis / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000209:etiology*; D015995:Prevalence; D012307:Risk Factors