Objective To understand the sub-health and bone mineral density (BMD) status of different adult groups in Karamay urban area, and explore the correlation between the two parts, thus, providing reference for the health care of urban residents in Xinjiang and the prevention of osteoporosis. Methods A total of 4, 377 adult residents in Karamay, Xinjiang were randomly selected. The sub-health and BMD status of the subjects were detected by instruments and statistically analyzed. Results The detection rate of sub-health was 71.85%, and which in female was slightly higher than that of male. There were significant differences in bone mass between sub-health group (including female group, Han people group, 20-39 years old group, obesity group, social service group and public institution residents) and healthy group (P<0.05). There were significant differences in BMD between the sub-health group (including female group, different nation group, 20-39 years old group, normal weight group, social service group) and the healthy group (P<0.05). There were differences in BMD among residents according to gender, weight and occupation (P<0.01). Logistic regression analysis showed that female, public institutions, high BMI, sub-health were protective factors for abnormal bone mass (OR=0.402, 95%CI: 0.308-0.524; OR=0.622, 95%CI: 0.480-0.806; OR=0.679, 95%CI: 0.466-0.990; OR=0.642, 95%CI: 0.501-0.822). Ethnic minorities, other people and the elderly were risk factors for bone abnormalities (OR=1.529, 95%CI: 1.118-2.091; OR=1.616, 95%CI: 1.027-2.542; OR=3.489, 95%CI: 2.151-5.660). Conclusion The middle-aged and elderly residents of Karamay ethnic minorities in Xinjiang should pay attention to their health status and the dynamic changes in bone mass, prevent and treat osteoporosis prematurely, so as to realize the goal of early detection and establish a healthy bones awareness. Meantime, the government should strengthen residents ' awareness of osteoporosis prevention, cultivate a healthy lifestyle, scientifically guide physical exercise, build a healthy and effective national fitness service system, and promote the healthy development of the whole people.