Is lung function associated with bone mineral density? Results from the Hertfordshire Cohort Study

Summary Given limited information available regarding associations between lung function and bone mineral density among healthy subjects, we undertook these analyses in the Hertfordshire Cohort Study. Forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV 1 ), forced vital capacity (FVC) and FEV 1 /FVC were not associated with bone mineral density at any site; associations with bone mineral content were removed by adjustment for body size. Purpose There is limited information available regarding the association between lung function and bone mineral density among healthy elderly subjects. We addressed this issue in the Hertfordshire Cohort Study. Methods From the above cohort, 985 subjects (496 men and 489 women) aged 60–72 years were recruited. All subjects underwent bone density measurements using dual energy X-ray absorptiometry and lung function tests using standardised spirometry. Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) was defined as a FEV 1 /FVC ratio