Bone strength reflects the integration of bone mineral density (BMD) and other properties of bone that are collectively called "bone quality".
BMD in adults is determined by peak bone mass and subsequent bone loss.
In one analysis, for every one standard deviation decrease in BMD at the hip, there was a 2.6-fold increase in the risk of hip fracture.
Thus, the prevention of low bone mass is directed to maximizing peak bone mass and minimizing the rate of bone loss, with the ultimate goals of maintaining bone strength and preventing fractures.