1.Study on the correlation between bone mineral density and physical characteristics among first-year nursing students
Nyam-Ochir G ; Altanzul G ; Erdenesaikhan T ; Ganbaatar B ; Bat-Erdene T ; Naranbat B ; Odbayar G ; Tserennadmid B ; Baigalmaa B ; Dashdulam Ts ; Enkhbileg ; Dolgorsuren S ; Ulziijargal G ; Saranzaya B ; Munkhzul D ; Sukhbat B ; Tsetsegsuren Kh ; Tsolmontsetseg G ; Banzragch G ; Nomundari B ; Enkhtuul B
Mongolian Journal of Health Sciences 2026;95(5):150-153
Background:
Bone mineral density (BMD) is a key indicator reflecting bone strength and resistance to fracture. It is influenced by multiple factors, including age, sex, genetic background, body composition, nutrition, and physical activity. During young adulthood, peak bone mass is actively formed; therefore, identifying early variations in this period is essential for predicting future skeletal health risks. Accordingly, assessing BMD and evaluating its relationship with physical characteristics among first-year nursing students provides a scientific rationale for this study.
Aim:
To examine the relationship between bone mineral density and selected physical parameters among students.
Materials and Methods:
A total of 297 first-year students aged 17-35 years from the School of Nursing, Mongolian National University of Medical Sciences were included. Bone mineral density was assessed by measuring the speed of sound through the radius using an ultrasound bone densitometry device. Handgrip strength was measured using an electronic dynamometer. Physical parameters including age, sex, height, and body weight were measured using standardized procedures, and statistical analysis was performed. The study was approved by the Research Ethics Committee of MNUMS on November 21, 2025 (No. 26/1) and March 28, 2026 (No. 26/03-B02), with no ethical violations identified.
Results:
According to T-scores, 37.1% (n=110) of participants had normal bone status and 62.9% (n=187) showed reduced bone density. Based on Z-scores, 52.5% (n=159) were normal, while 45.6% (n=138) had decreased values. T-score values were 1.87±0.69 (<20 years), 1.44±0.55 (20–30 years), and 1.10±0.31 (>30 years), while Z-score values were −0.73±1.38, −0.43±1.23, and −0.02±1.27, respectively. ANOVA analysis revealed statistically significant differences among age groups (p<0.01). A positive correlation was observed between T-score and age, whereas no significant correlations were found with other physical parameters. Z-score showed a positive correlation with handgrip strength.
Conclusions
1. A high prevalence of reduced bone mineral density was observed among the students, which may be associated with incomplete attainment of peak bone mass in adolescents and young adults. 2. A significant difference in bone mineral density was found between age groups (p<0.01), indicating that age is an important factor influencing bone mineral density.
Result Analysis
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