Abstract: ObjectiveTo study changes of bone measured with quantitative ultrasound (QUS) in women of Guangzhou area and provide scientific basis for prevention and treatment of osteoporosis (OP).MethodsCalcaneus measurement was done with QUS in 647 women of Guangzhou area, and measurement data was analyzed.ResultsIn menopause and aged women, broadband ultrasound attenuation (BUA) showed a significantly decrease (P<0.01), whereas it decreased only slightly in early postmenopausal women (P>0.05). After the peak of BMD, speed of sound (SOS) showed a stepwise decline, and significantly decrease in menopause (P<0.01), but not significant over eighties (P>0.05). In contrast, stiffness index (STI) significantly decreased from the menopause, and it was a better indicator than BUA or SOS.ConclusionQUS can not only test bone mass but also assess microarchitecture, and it is nonradioactive, cheaper, easier to use, and may play a important role in diagnosis of osteoporosis and women and senile health.

Key words: women, osteoporosis, quantitative ultrasound (QUS)