Human bones get lighter over time

A lack of spongy bone makes human bones lighter, increasing the risk of fractures and osteoporosis.

Cancellous bone changes in the hand bones of chimpanzees, Australopithecus africanus, Neanderthals, and modern humans (from left to right). Photo: AMNH/J. Steffey and Brian Richmond

According to Science Mag, chimpanzee bones have a dense density of a small structure called spongy bone. Using CT scanning technology, researchers have discovered that the bones of modern chimpanzees, Australopithecus africanus, Neanderthals, and Homo sapiens have a much higher density of spongy bone than those of modern humans.

The driving factor for change may be people's sedentary lifestyles.

When comparing the density of spongy bone in the hip joints of primates, ancient hunter-gatherers, and ancient farmers, experts found that the hip joints of hunter-gatherers were almost as strong as those of monkeys. Meanwhile, the hip joints of ancient farmers were significantly lacking in spongy bone.

Scientists conclude that modern human skeletons are getting weaker due to lack of regular and rigorous training, not due to evolutionary pressure.

According to VnExpress