SINGAPORE, Sept. 4 (Xinhua) -- More than one in four healthy-weight Chinese Singaporean women in their 20s and 30s may have low muscle mass and weaker bones, health risks usually associated with older age, according to a new study.
The findings suggest hidden risks for fractures and metabolic diseases that standard BMI (Body Mass Index) measurements can't detect, the Agency for Science, Technology and Research said in a statement Thursday.
The study, conducted by researchers from the agency and other institutions, followed 191 Singaporean women aged 18 to 45. It found that 26 percent of normal-weight Chinese women had low muscle mass combined with higher body fat, a condition sometimes called "thin outside, fat inside."
The research also revealed ethnic differences in bone health. Chinese women had the lowest bone density, despite appearing healthy by BMI standards, while women from other ethnic groups in Singapore generally had stronger bones.
These findings are particularly concerning because Singapore is among the countries with the highest rates of hip fractures worldwide, the agency noted.
"Most research targets bone health after mid-life, but our study focuses on young adulthood when prevention strategies can be most beneficial," said lead author Mya Thway Tint.
Senior author Johan Eriksson noted the clinical implications: "These findings highlight that 'healthy BMI' is insufficient to identify chronic disease risk among Asian women. Body composition screening could identify at-risk individuals who might otherwise be overlooked due to their seemingly healthy appearance."
The agency said that vigorous physical activity and adequate dairy intake are key strategies for preventing muscle and bone loss, with early intervention during peak bone-building years being most effective. ■
