Inactivity is a risk factor for low bone mineral density among haemophilic children

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Endocrinology
• Hematology
• Bone Metabolism

Background:

• Reduced bone mineral density (BMD) in childhood increases osteoporosis risk later in life.
• Hemophilia, a bleeding disorder, may impact bone health in affected children.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the prevalence of low BMD, calcium intake, and physical activity levels in children with hemophilia compared to healthy controls.
• To identify risk factors associated with reduced BMD in pediatric hemophilia patients.

Main Methods:

• A case-control study involving 62 children with hemophilia and 62 matched healthy controls.
• Lumbar spine BMD assessed using dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA).
• Physical activity and calcium intake evaluated via validated questionnaires.

Main Results:

• 38% of hemophilic children had low BMD compared to 16% of controls (OR 2.86, P=0.014).
• Hemophilic children exhibited significantly lower lumbar BMD (-1.6 vs. -0.9, P=0.0004).
• Higher prevalence of sedentary behavior and low-grade exercise in hemophilic children (77% vs. 50%, OR 3.2, P=0.003).
• No significant difference in calcium intake between groups.

Conclusions:

• Low physical activity is a significant risk factor for reduced lumbar bone mass in children with hemophilia.
• Monitoring physical activity is crucial to mitigate skeletal fragility and potential osteoporosis in this population.
• Reduced BMD in hemophilic children warrants attention to prevent long-term skeletal complications.