Height loss in women can predict bone density, an important indicator of osteoporosis, reports the Arthritis Foundation.
The finding makes it possible to identify women at risk and prevent the bone fractures associated with osteoporosis before they occur, said a spokesman for the foundation.Researchers reviewed the records of 1,126 subjects to determine the association between height loss and subsequent bone density.
According to the foundation, the study found that long-term height loss of 2 inches or more was strongly associated with low bone density in the hip, averaging 6 to 12 percent less bone density than women with no height loss.
"There are ways to intervene and prevent osteoporosis in women at risk before the disease results in bone fractures," said Dr. Arthur Grayzel, senior vice president of medical affairs.
"This additional way to predict bone-density loss will help women and doctors recognize the risk and start interventions earlier."