Current Projects

Michigan Bone Health & Metabolism Study (MBHMS)

The MBHMS research study is a longitudinal population-based study, which provides a unique setting to evaluate the impact of an aging-related process (menopause) and an environment-related process (increasing obesity) on the development and progression of musculoskeletal disease and their potential for affecting degree of functioning. The MBHMS study was initiated in 1992, and has characterized the natural history of musculoskeletal status and its alteration among women (aged 25-45 at their baseline) whose hormone status is changing because of menopause and obesity. This study also evaluates the influence of the metabolic environment generated by obesity on musculoskeletal status and physical functioning with a focus on oxidative stress and inflammation.

This research is increasing the understanding of changes in body composition, hormones, bone, osteoarthritis and physical functioning in women in mid-life for clinicians, women and the general public. Many of these characteristics have not been studied before in women of this age group. The longitudinal nature of this study will allow for a better description of factors that lead to or predict bone disease and osteoarthritis, which could lead to better prevention and management of these diseases.