Objective: Osteoporosis is characterized by decreased bone mass and deterioration of bone architecture which can result in fractures and also have a negative effect on quality of life (QOL). The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of osteoporosis on QOL and to evaluate its determinants.
 

Materials and Methods: 276 postmenopausal and senile osteoporotic women (60.6±8.9 years of age) were enrolled in the study. Demographic data, risk factors, physical activity level and concomitant diseases were recorded. Back pain was evaluated by using visual analogue scale. Bone turnover markers, lateral thoracolumbar X-rays and bone mineral density measurements by DXA method were also evaluated. The QOL was assessed by means of Quality of Life Questionnaire of the European Foundation for Osteoporosis (QUALEFFO). 
 

Results: Total QUALEFFO score of postmenopousal and senile osteoporotic patients were 41.4±14.3 and 49.3±15.1 respectively. The most prominent deterioration was in the social function and general health perception domains in both groups. The age, body mass index, educational status, postmenopausal years, pain severity, major risk factors, concomitant diseases, physical activity level and vertebral deformities evaluated by radiography were correlated with total QUALEFFO score. In the group which lumbar T score was below -2.5 (n=241), the lumbar bone mineral density values were correlated with physical function domain and total score. Vitamin D levels of the patients were found to be correlated with physical function domain scores. 
 

Conclusion: The QOL scores of our patients, especially those of the senile osteoporotic patients, were low and QOL was influenced by numerous variables. These results point out that osteoporotic patients must be evaluated multidimensionally and different approaches are needed to improve their QOL.