Objective  To explore quantitative ultrasound (QUS) parameters of calcaneus and factors associated with the parameters in Han adult residents living in Yunnan province and to provide evidences for developing bone health promotion strategies.

  Methods  Using multistage stratified cluster sampling, we conducted a questionnaire survey and physical examination among 1 766 Han community residents aged 20 – 80 years. We adopted Pegasus device to measure broadband ultrasound attenuation (BUA) and speed of sound (SOS) of calcaneus among the participants. Multivariate linear regression model was employed to analyze factors correlated to calcaneus QUS parameters.

  Results  The results of covariance analysis demonstrated that the calcaneus BUA of the male participants was significantly higher than that of the female participants after adjusting for age (P < 0.05). The results of multivariate analysis revealed that calcaneus QUS parameters were reversely associated with age in the male participants; current smokers had lower QUS parameters (BUA: β = – 4.3, SOS: β = – 8.1); the male participants with personal monthly income of≥3 001 RMB yuan (BUA: β = 8.2), drinking alcohol currently (BUA: β = 4.3), and doing physical exercise≥3 times/per week (SOS: β = 8.6) were more likely to have higher calcaneus QUS values. While, the female participants aged 60 – 80 years (BUA: β = – 8.0) and being menopausal (BUA: β = – 13.2; SOS: β = – 21.5) were more likely to have lower calcaneus QUS parameters; but those with the body mass index (BMI) of≥28 kg/m² (BUA: β = 6.7) and doing physical exercise were more likely to have higher with the QUS parameters.

  Conclusion  Elder age, low BMI, smoking, lack of physical exercise, and menopause are risk factors for calcaneus QUS parameters and having physical exercise may improve bone health among Han adult community residents in Yunnan province.