Home-Based Osteoporosis monitoring Using Bioelectrical Impedance Analysis: Muscle-to-Bone Mass Ratio

Osteoporosis and its associated fractures affect nearly one-fifth of the global population, becoming a significant public health concern. While medical interventions can reduce these risks, Dual-energy X-ray Absorptiometry (DXA), the primary screening method, is limited due to its high cost, need for professional operation, and radiation exposure risks. However, in our Bioelectrical Impedance Analysis (BIA) conducted on 152,449 Chinese residents, we identified two distinct Muscle-to-Bone Mass Ratio (MBR) subgroups in both male and female elderly populations. The MBR range for males is 12.5-15.5 and 16.5-17.8; for females, its 11.2-15.2 and 16.5-18.2, with 16 being a significant threshold. Individuals with an MBR value exceeding 16 exhibit pronounced features of osteoporosis and an increased risk of fractures. For instance, the Bone Mineral Content (BMC) in males decreased by 19.18% (95%CI, 18.65%-19.73%), and in females by 29.84% (95%CI, 29.31%-30.36%). These individuals also showed lower body weight and BMI values. Females also displayed shorter stature and a higher body fat percentage, both indicators associated with osteoporosis. In contrast to the traditional Bone Mineral Density (BMD) T-score, the MBR sheds light on a specific physiological state in the elderly. In this condition, their risk of fractures significantly increases. This new understanding of osteoporosis suggests that we should not solely rely on the simple quantification of BMD. Furthermore, BIA measurements taken with domestic scales make MBR a safer, more efficient, and economical screening tool. This enables long-term MBR monitoring at home, offering continuous feedback for osteoporosis and fracture prevention, surpassing the limitations of DXA technology.