ОСТЕОПЕНИЯ ПРИ ЖЕНИ В АКТИВНА ВЪЗРАСТ ОТ РОМСКИ И БЪЛГАРСКИ ПРОИЗХОД – РИСКОВА ПРЕДИСПОЗИЦИЯ.

Osteoporosis is a chronic, progressive metabolic disease that leads to a decrease in bone density. It affects the population of all countries of the world and can lead to disability and significantly worsen the quality of life of patients. The condition in which bone density is below normal reference values, but not low enough to be diagnosed with osteoporosis, is called osteopenia. Change in bone health can begin at a young age, so early prevention should be a public health challenge. Decreased bone density in young women can be caused by a variety of factors, such as genetics, lifestyle, dietary habits, physical activity, and socioeconomic conditions. This study aims to identify risk factors related to lifestyle, adversely affecting bone health among able-bodied women of two different ethnicities - Bulgarian and Roma. A total of 417 women of active age participated in the study, divided into two groups according to their ethnicity. The results show statistical differences between the two groups in lifestyle and harmful habits affecting bone health. Regarding the other modifiable risk factors: smoking, excessive alcohol use and caffeinated beverages, we found a statistically significant difference, only for alcohol consumption. Adherence to a diet for weight loss, as a risk factor for unbalanced nutrition and lack of vitamins and minerals necessary for bones, shows a statistically significant difference, Bulgarian women gave a higher relative share for this risk factor. Conclusion: Knowledge of the condition "osteopenia" as well as lifestyle risk factors among women of active age will improve bone health and bone mineral density and prevent the development of osteoporosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]