Who Has Thicker Bones?
Generally, males tend to have thicker bones than females. This difference is observable in various bone sites, contributing to greater skeletal integrity in males despite comparable body size.
Several factors contribute to bone thickness variations:
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Sex: As noted in the provided research, males exhibit greater bone mineral content (BMC) and bone mineral density (BMD) at the hip and distal tibia, along with increased tibial cortical thickness. This research also shows males having higher lean mass. This is further supported by the observation that Black men tend to have wider bones with thicker cortices compared to other ethnic groups. Source
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Genetics and Ethnicity: Genetic predisposition and ethnic background play a significant role in bone structure and density.
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Lifestyle and Activity: Physical activity and weight-bearing exercise throughout life contribute to stronger and denser bones. Conversely, lack of physical activity can lead to weaker bones. Source shows hunter-gatherer bones were significantly thicker due to higher physical activity.
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Age: Bone density typically peaks in young adulthood and gradually declines with age, increasing the risk of fractures.
Measuring Bone Thickness
Bone density, a crucial indicator of bone strength, is assessed through methods such as DEXA scans (dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry). Source These scans measure both the thickness and density, providing insights into bone health. Other measurements focus on specific bone features like cortical thickness. Average bone thickness varies greatly among individuals. Source
