Mineral density of calcaneus in men at different ages: a population study with special reference to life-style factors.

The mineral density of the calcaneus was measured in representative samples of men, aged 31-35, 51-55, and 71-75 years, utilizing a 125I-gamma-ray attenuation method. There was a gradual decrease in bone mineral density from the youngest to the oldest age group. Those men who participated in regular physical activity or who were non-smokers showed higher values for bone mineral density when compared to sedentary men or smokers, respectively. Furthermore, bone mineral density correlated positively with physical performance capacity and negatively with the prevalence of chronic diseases.