Footnote: This figure summarizes the findings from the pQCT variables in the tibia of patients with thalassemia compared to healthy controls. The findings are significant after adjustment for age, gender, Tanner stage, growth (tibial length Z-score) and/or tibial muscle mass. Of note, decreased periosteal circumference and reduced cortical thickness may lead to a mechanically weaker bone. However, in this study after controlling for tibial length and muscle mass, there was no significant differences in the strength parameter observed (Section Modulus Z-score).