Gildee and Kramer Publish Study on the Relationship Between Parity and Bone Density

Posted: 4/3/2025 ()

Bone remodeling is the process by which old bone is broken down and rebuilt, helping to maintain bone mineral density (BMD) and overall bone health. Chronic dysregulation of this process can lead to osteoporosis, lower mineral reserves, and increased fracture risk. In a recent study published in the American Journal of Human Biology, CSDE Trainee Cristina Gildee and Professor Patricia A. Kramer (Anthropology) explore how parity (the number of live births) affects BMD in different anatomical regions. Initial results showed that higher parity was linked to lower BMD in most areas, but also suggest that more rigorous statistical modeling and selection of variables that proxy reproductive cost, socioeconomic status, and other lifestyle factors could help advance future research on relevant mechanisms. Read the full study here.