Prevalence of cardiovascular diseases in relation to total bone mineral density and prevalent fractures: a population-based cross-sectional study

Abstract Aims We aimed to explore the relationship between total BMD and prevalent fractures and the risk of CVD in a female population in the United States (US). Methods and Results We undertook cross-sectional analyses of a female population participating in the US National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES). Generalized linear models and restricted cubic spline curves were used to examine the association between total BMD and CVD. Subgroup analyses were also undertaken. A total of 13707 women were enrolled. The restricted cubic spline curve revealed a linear and negative association between total BMD and CVD. The inflection point for the curve was identified at total BMD = 1.085 g/cm2. A negative relationship between total BMD and the prevalence of individual CVDs (angina and stroke) was noted (P Conclusions We revealed a reduced prevalence of CVD associated with increased total BMD in a female population in the US. CVD risk decreased significantly if total BMD >1.085 g/cm2. Additionally, fracture-free individuals had much reduced odds of developing CVD.