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Osteoporosis risk factors in eighth grade students
The Journal of School Health
|January 13, 1998
Summary
This study identified osteoporosis risk factors in eighth graders, finding that males had higher calcium intake and lower BMI. Combining risk factors may compromise peak bone mass development.
Area of Science:
- Pediatrics
- Public Health
- Bone Health
Background:
- Osteoporosis risk factors can be identified in adolescents.
- Understanding these factors is crucial for preventing compromised peak bone mass.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe osteoporosis risk factors in Midwestern eighth-grade students.
- To compare gender differences in these risk factors.
Main Methods:
- A sample of 138 student/parent pairs was analyzed.
- Descriptive statistics and Chi-square analyses were used to assess risk factors.
- Non-modifiable (gender, ethnicity, family history) and modifiable (calcium, activity, BMI, etc.) factors were examined.
Main Results:
- The average total risk factor score was 4.1 (1.9 non-modifiable, 2.3 modifiable).
- Males showed significantly higher adequate calcium intake, excessive sodium intake, and lower body mass index (BMI).
Conclusions:
- Adolescents with multiple non-modifiable and modifiable risk factors may face increased osteoporosis risk.
- Future research should correlate risk factor totals with bone density using DEXA scans.