Low bone mineral density among the Bangladeshi public health professionals: a cross-sectional study
Description
Description: This dataset contains the data of 330 public health professionals who participated in 9th Regional Public Health Conference. Data were collected to evaluate bone mineral density (BMD) and potential demographic, behavioral and health correlates therefor. Systems and methods: A semi-structured questionnaire was developed to collect information on socio-demographic characteristics (age, sex, occupation, education, diet (habitual fruit consumption or vegetable intake, use of dietary supplements for vitamin D), lifestyle variables (physical activity, water intake, sleep quality, sunlight exposure and tobacco use), medical history (Hypertension, Diabetes, CVDs, Chronic Kidney disease). Physical measurements: BMD, systolic and diastolic blood pressure (BP), height and weight. BMD was measured by Ultrasound Bone Densitometer CM-200 Light (Furuno Electric Company, Japan) and T-scores were categorized according to the WHO criteria. Using SPSS 25.0 statistical analyses included chi-square and t-tests. Key findings: We found that 37.9% of the respondents had low bone mass (LBM) and the prevalence increased significantly with age, especially in people aged from 46 to 65 years (45.5%). While the prevalence of LBM was slightly higher in females (38.5%) compared to males, there are significant gender-specific risks that need attention. Chronic conditions, especially chronic kidney disease (66.7%) and diabetes made up the highest LBM rate (53.3%). More respondents with a normal bone density reported managing regular physical exercise, adequate sleep, fruit and vegetable consumption, appropriate water intake and avoidance of tobacco use as compared to those with osteopenia or low BMD; however these associations were not statistically significant. While greater BMI was associated with a higher percentage of LBM, high overall BMD did not significantly correlate in this study. The LBM group had slightly higher systolic blood pressure and no significant effect on BMD was seen with respect to educational level. Potential Uses of Dataset: This dataset offers valuable insights into bone health and associated factors within the public health workforce in Bangladesh. It can serve as a comparative basis for international studies on BMD and inform public health strategies to enhance bone health and manage related risks, particularly in aging populations. Ethical Approval: Approval was granted by the Ethical Review Committee of Bangladesh University of Health Sciences, with informed consent obtained from all participants. Keywords: low bone mass, Bangladesh, public health, professionals.
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Outline of Data Collection and Methods: The dataset was compiled as part of a cross-sectional study designed to evaluate bone mineral density (BMD) and to identify associated demographic, behavioral, and health factors among public health professionals in Bangladesh. The following procedures detail the data collection and analysis process: Study Design and Participant Recruitment A cross-sectional study design was utilized, with data gathered from 330 public health professionals participating in the 9th Regional Public Health Conference at the Bangladesh University of Health Sciences. Participants were recruited on a voluntary basis, and informed consent was secured. Questionnaire Development and Data Collection A semi-structured questionnaire was developed, concentrating on socio-demographic information, medical history, and lifestyle factors. The key areas covered in the questionnaire included: Socio-demographic variables: Age, gender, profession, years of education. Medical history: Presence of chronic conditions such as hypertension, diabetes, cardiovascular diseases (CVDs), and chronic kidney disease. Behavioral factors: Dietary practices (intake of fruits and vegetables, vitamin D supplementation), lifestyle habits (physical activity, hydration, sleep quality, sunlight exposure, tobacco consumption). The questionnaire was administered through in-person interviews to ensure precise data collection. Physical Measurements and Protocols Physical health indicators were assessed in accordance with standard protocols to maintain consistency: Bone Mineral Density (BMD): BMD was evaluated using the Ultrasound Bone Densitometer CM-200 Light (Furuno Electric Company, Japan). The T-score values were analyzed based on WHO criteria to classify bone mass. Blood Pressure: Systolic and diastolic blood pressure (BP) were recorded using an Omron digital BP monitor after a minimum rest period of 15 minutes. Anthropometric Measures: Height was measured with a wall-mounted stadiometer, and weight was recorded using a calibrated scale. This dataset provides essential information for comparative studies on bone health, assisting policymakers in developing focused health strategies and preventive measures. It serves to inform healthcare professionals about critical risk factors associated with low bone mass, thereby enhancing patient care. Additionally, researchers and educators can utilize this data to raise awareness about bone health and to formulate future research initiatives in the field of occupational health.