EFFECTS OF SEDENTARY LIFESTYLE ON BONE MINERAL DENSITY IN INDIAN WOMEN

Abstract

Background: Sedentary lifestyle is an emerging public health concern, particularly among women, and is associated with reduced bone mineral density (BMD) and increased risk of osteoporosis. Objective: To evaluate the impact of sedentary lifestyle and body mass index (BMI) on BMD in Indian women. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted on 65 women. Anthropometric measurements were recorded, and BMI was calculated. BMD was assessed using SONOST 3000 ultrasound densitometer and interpreted using WHO T score criteria. Pearson correlation analysis was applied. Results: Among participants, 50.77% had normal BMD, 47.69% had osteopenia, and 1.54% had osteoporosis. A strong negative correlation was observed between BMI and T-score (r = -0.707, p = 0.001), indicating reduced bone density with increasing BMI. Conclusion: Sedentary lifestyle and higher BMI are significantly associated with decreased BMD. Early screening and lifestyle modification are essential to prevent osteoporosis in Indian women.