Computed tomography shows high fracture prevalence among physically active forager-horticulturalists with high fertility
Year: 2019
Type: article
Study design: Observational Study
Abstract: Modern humans have more fragile skeletons than other hominins, which may result from physical inactivity. Here, we test whether reproductive effort also compromises bone strength, by measuring using computed tomography thoracic vertebral bone mineral density (BMD) and fracture prevalence among physically active Tsimane forager-horticulturalists. Earlier onset of reproduction and shorter interbirth intervals are associated with reduced BMD for women. Tsimane BMD is lower versus Americans, but only for women, contrary to simple predictions relying on inactivity to explain skeletal fragility. Minimal BMD differences exist between Tsimane and American men, suggesting that systemic factors other than fertility (e.g. diet) do not easily explain Tsimane women's lower BMD. Tsimane fracture prevalence is also higher versus Americans. Lower BMD increases Tsimane fracture risk, but only for women, suggesting a role of weak bone in women's fracture etiology. Our results highlight the role of sex-specific mechanisms underlying skeletal fragility that operate long before menopause.
Source: eLife
DOI: 10.7554/elife.48607
Authors: Jonathan Stieglitz, Benjamin C Trumble, HORUS Study Team, Caleb E Finch, Dong Li, Matthew J Budoff, Hillard Kaplan, Michael D Gurven
Institutions: Université Toulouse-I-Capitole, Institute for Advanced Study in Toulouse, Arizona State University, University of Southern California, Emory University, University of California, Los Angeles, The Lundquist Institute, Los Angeles Medical Center, Chapman University, University of California, Santa Barbara
Language: English
Subfield: Orthopedics and Sports Medicine
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $2,500
OpenAlex ID: W2968224536