Initially, the WHO criteria for diagnosing osteoporosis applies to which population?

• A. All elderly individuals
• B. Postmenopausal Caucasian women
• C. Men over 50
• D. Women of all ages

Answer: (B)

The World Health Organization (WHO) criteria for diagnosing osteoporosis specifically apply to postmenopausal Caucasian women. This population was chosen because the initial research and data surrounding osteoporosis predominantly focused on this demographic, which is particularly at risk for developing the condition due to factors like hormonal changes after menopause and a generally lower peak bone mass compared to men or younger individuals.

Osteoporosis is defined by a specific bone mineral density measurement, where a T-score of -2.5 or lower indicates osteoporosis. The reference database used to establish these criteria is based primarily on measurements collected from healthy postmenopausal Caucasian women, making this population the standard reference point for assessing bone density and diagnosing osteoporosis.

While osteoporosis can affect other groups—such as men, younger women, and even elderly individuals regardless of sex—these populations may not fit the WHO's original diagnostic framework directly, as their risk factors, bone density profiles, and the pathophysiology of bone loss may differ. Therefore, the criteria set by the WHO serve as a benchmark specifically for postmenopausal Caucasian women, although subsequent research has expanded knowledge and guidelines to better encompass other demographics as well.