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Bone mass among premenopausal women
R Lindsay1, J Nieves, A Golden
1Columbia University, College of Physicians and Surgeons, New York, New York.
International Journal of Fertility and Menopausal Studies
|January 1, 1993
Summary
Peak bone mass is genetically influenced but can be modified by lifestyle. Early bone loss in premenopausal women, particularly at the femoral neck, warrants further longitudinal study for osteoporosis prevention.
Area of Science:
- Bone Biology
- Skeletal Health
- Osteoporosis Research
Background:
- Peak bone mass is primarily determined by genetics.
- Nutrition and lifestyle during growth may influence genetic potential for bone mass.
- Skeletal consolidation after growth involves increased cortical bone width.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review current understanding of bone mass acquisition and loss.
- To highlight conflicting data on cancellous bone mass changes.
- To investigate early bone loss in premenopausal women and its potential causes.
Main Methods:
- Review of cross-sectional and preliminary longitudinal data.
- Analysis of factors influencing bone mass, including genetics, nutrition, and lifestyle.
- Examination of bone density changes in the spine and femoral neck.
Main Results:
- Cancellous bone mass may peak around age 18.
- Spine bone mass is generally stable until menopause, barring ovarian disturbances.
- Premenopausal women may experience femoral neck bone loss independent of body size or nutrition.
Conclusions:
- Modest ovarian function disruptions may negatively impact bone mass.
- Further longitudinal studies are needed to understand factors controlling premenopausal bone mass.
- Maximizing skeletal mass early in life is a potential strategy for osteoporosis prevention.