Bone Mass Measurement as Part of Nutritional Education Program in Occupational Setting

Abstract

This study investigated bone mass and the dietary property among 30 male workers (mean age ; 46.4y) and 58 female workers (mean age ; 47.4y) who participated in nutritional education program at their workplace. We objectively measured bone mass using a quantitative ultrasound device, body weight, and body fat. Additionally, we conducted a questionnaire survey for dietary habit and a experience of bone mass measurement.
The T - score indicates the osteo sono assessment index (OSI), and was compared with that of 20-44-year-old subjects. The rate of T - scores <90%, showing that subjects require educational intervention, was 13.3% for males and 22.4% for females. Moreover, the rate of T - scores <80%, indicating that subjects require subsequent medical checkups, was 0% for males and 5.2% for females. The rate of subjects who had experienced bone mass measurement significantly differed between the sexes (6.7% for males and 32.8% for females, p <0.01). Sixty-two percent had undergone bone mass measurement at a hospital, 24% at a health promotion event, and 14% at a public health center.
Further studies are needed to examine whether bone mass measurement as part of a nutritional education program in occupational settings has a positive effect on workers to improve their own eating habits to prevent osteoporosis.