Correlation of bone status in mothers and daughters and the improvement of bone status

Acquiring a higher peak bone mass during puberty reduces the risk of osteoporosis later in life. Peak bone mass is influenced by a variety of genetic and environmental factors. Age-appropriate nutrition and physical education for school-age children is indispensable. In the present study, bone examinations were performed on 1611 female students in junior and senior high school along with their 1376 mothers, and a 5-year follow-up survey was conducted.

Quantitative ultrasound assessment of the calcaneus was performed to calculate the osteo-sono assessment index (OSI) using an ultrasound system Acoustic Osteo-Screener. A questionnaire was distributed to all participants to investigate their physical status and lifestyle. In addition, the presence of determinant factors of bone status and genetic factors in mother-daughter pairs and lifestyle, including diet and physical activity, in those with low bone status were examined.

The OSI was determined by age, weight, the body mass index (BMI), years after menarche, exercise history, and milk intake in daughters, as well as by age, menopause status, history of bone fracture, and exercise history in mothers. Multiple regression analysis showed significant relations between the daughter's OSI and weight, the mother's OSI, the years after menarche, and physical activity. A correlation in mother-daughter pairs was observed between the OSI and height, weight, BMI, and calcium intake. The OSI and milk intake significantly increased with accumulated follow-up checkups owing to the age-matched nutrition instruction; however, physical activity was not improved in either daughters or mothers.

Because the lifestyle of mothers has been already established, it is difficult to change their diet. Therefore, a well-rounded diet during childhood and adolescence is important for achieving good bone health, which reduces the risk of osteoporosis later in life.