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Published on: January 29, 2018
Bone density in peripubertal boys with autism spectrum disorders
Ann M Neumeyer1, Amy Gates, Christine Ferrone
1Lurie Center for Autism, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, One Maguire Road, Lexington, MA 02421, USA. aneumeyer@partners.org
Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders
|November 6, 2012
Summary
Boys with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) have lower bone mineral density (BMD) compared to controls. This may be linked to lower vitamin D levels and reduced physical activity in children with ASD.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Endocrinology
- Neurodevelopmental Disorders
- Orthopedics
Background:
- Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition with complex health implications.
- Bone mineral density (BMD) is crucial for skeletal health, particularly during childhood and adolescence.
- Limited research exists on skeletal health in children with ASD.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate differences in BMD between boys with ASD and typically developing controls.
- To identify potential factors influencing BMD in boys with ASD, such as vitamin D status and physical activity.
Main Methods:
- Dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) was used to measure BMD in 18 boys with ASD and 19 controls aged 8-14 years.
- Assessment included dietary vitamin D intake, serum vitamin D levels, and physical activity levels.
- Statistical analyses controlled for biological maturity and body mass index (BMI).
Main Results:
- Boys with ASD exhibited significantly lower BMD Z-scores at the spine, hip, and femoral neck compared to controls.
- These differences, particularly at the hip and femoral neck, remained significant after adjusting for maturity and BMI.
- Lower vitamin D intake, reduced serum vitamin D levels, and decreased exercise activity were observed in boys with ASD.
Conclusions:
- Peripubertal boys with ASD demonstrate reduced bone mineral density.
- Impaired vitamin D status and lower physical activity levels are potential contributing factors to lower BMD in this population.
- Further research is warranted to explore interventions to improve bone health in children with ASD.
Related Concept Videos
01:19Autism Spectrum Disorder
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition marked by persistent deficits in social communication and interaction alongside restrictive and repetitive behaviors or interests. ASD is sometimes accompanied by intellectual impairment.
These core symptoms manifest differently among individuals, ranging from mild to severe. The disorder's complexity extends beyond its clinical presentation, encompassing a diverse range of biological, cognitive, and sociocultural influences.
These core symptoms manifest differently among individuals, ranging from mild to severe. The disorder's complexity extends beyond its clinical presentation, encompassing a diverse range of biological, cognitive, and sociocultural influences.
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