A Prospective Observational Study on Osteoporosis in Postmenopausal Women Attending Opd

Abstract

Background: Osteoporosis is a major public health problem among postmenopausal women due to estrogen deficiency, leading to accelerated bone loss, decreased bone mineral density (BMD), and an increased risk of fragility fractures. Early diagnosis and identification of risk factors are essential for timely intervention and prevention of fracture-related morbidity.

Objectives: To determine the prevalence of osteoporosis among postmenopausal women attending the outpatient department and to evaluate the association of osteoporosis with demographic, clinical, and biochemical risk factors.

Materials and Methods: A prospective observational study was conducted among 100 postmenopausal women attending the Outpatient Department of Kodagu Institute of Medical Sciences, Madikeri, Karnataka, from February 2024 to January 2025. Detailed demographic and clinical data were collected. Bone mineral density was assessed using Dual-Energy X-ray Absorptiometry (DEXA) at the lumbar spine and femoral neck. Osteoporosis was diagnosed according to the World Health Organization (WHO) criteria based on T-scores. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 26.0, and a p-value <0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results: The mean age of participants was 56.3 ± 6.8 years. Osteopenia was observed in 41% of women, while osteoporosis was diagnosed in 35%. The prevalence of osteoporosis increased significantly with advancing age (p=0.008) and duration since menopause (p=0.002). Vitamin D deficiency was present in 44% of participants and showed a significant association with osteoporosis (p=0.012). Low physical activity and inadequate dietary calcium intake were the most common modifiable risk factors.

Conclusion: Osteoporosis and osteopenia are highly prevalent among postmenopausal women. Advancing age, prolonged duration since menopause, Vitamin D deficiency, inadequate calcium intake, and sedentary lifestyle significantly contribute to reduced bone mineral density. Routine DEXA screening and preventive strategies should be encouraged for early diagnosis and fracture prevention.