ABSTRACT
Introduction:
Bone tissue can be assessed quantitatively by densitometry; however, when bone biomarkers are associated, bone fragility can be predicted earlier. However, little is known about the correlation between both, as well as on the current level of physical activity, and muscle strength.
Objective:
To evaluate the correlation of bone mineral density values (BMD) with the bone blood biomarker (CTX), and also with the level of physical activity measured by pedometer and questionnaire - IPAQ, long version, and the strength tests in postmenopausal women.
Method:
Descriptive cross-sectional study of 62 postmenopausal, healthy women, with average age of 56.82 ± 4.02, evaluated as for the current level of physical activity, strength, BMD and CTX. Total body densitometry was performed, as well as the lumbar spine, femur and forearms, and the tests for blood CTX, ionic calcium, phosphorus, and PTH. Two groups were formed: control with normal BMD and group with decreased BMD. Student t-test, chi-square, and Pearson were used.
Results:
There were no significant statistical differences between the two groups for strength tests, current physical activity level and muscle strength in relation to CTX, but there was an association of this value with the values of BMD.
Conclusion:
CTX has demonstrated dependence in relation to the total BMD and lumbar spine BMD, occurring low BMD when CTX was moderate to high. This indicates that the biomarker might be used as a method of screening individuals at risk for low BMD and increased risk for fractures.
Keywords:
bone mineral density; metabolism; exercise; women
